If you’re experiencing slow broadband speeds, the reason might be simple. Uswitch reports that many homeowners are unaware of the number of devices connected to their router, with the average British household having around 16 web-enabled gadgets spread throughout the premises.
Certain devices like video doorbells are constantly online, transmitting data over the internet, which can lead to slowdowns affecting activities such as video calls and streaming services like Netflix, especially in homes with basic internet connections.
Broadband can be likened to a road – the more traffic it carries, the slower it becomes. While homes with full-fibre broadband have wider “roads” to accommodate increased traffic, older copper cables may struggle to keep up.
Another issue arises from ‘phantom’ devices, which remain connected to the router despite not being actively used. These devices continue to communicate with the router, checking for updates or exchanging information.
To improve connectivity, consider upgrading to faster full-fibre speeds if your home is filled with smart devices. Additionally, disconnect any unused devices to potentially see a speed boost.
Max Beckett, a broadband expert at Uswitch, warns that unused gadgets and sensors constantly communicate with the router in the background, potentially causing connectivity issues like buffering during movie streaming or gaming.
Beckett emphasizes the importance of managing connected devices, suggesting a digital spring cleaning to disconnect any unused devices or old tech still connected to the network. While full fibre broadband is optimal for avoiding buffering, simple steps like device management and limiting high-definition video streaming can significantly enhance the online experience.