Slow or Dropping Wi-Fi: Quick Troubleshooting

Slow or unreliable Wi-Fi is frustrating, but the cause is often simple. These checks help you find out whether the problem is your internet service, your Wi-Fi, or a single device.

1. Is it one device or everyone?

• Only one device: restart that device, turn its Wi-Fi off and on, and check for updates. The problem is probably on that device.
• Every device: the problem is likely the router, the Wi-Fi coverage or the internet service. Keep reading.

2. Check for a provider outage

Before changing anything, check your internet provider's app or website, or its outage page, for problems in your area. Severe weather often causes outages in Southwest Florida.

3. Run a speed test, wired and wireless

1. On a computer connected to Wi-Fi, run a speed test (for example at speedtest.net or fast.com). Write down the download and upload numbers.
2. If possible, connect the same computer to the router with a network cable and run the test again.
3. Compare the results:
   • Wired is slow too: the issue is the internet service or the modem. Contact your provider.
   • Wired is fast, Wi-Fi is slow: the issue is the Wi-Fi signal or coverage.

4. Restart the equipment

Restart the modem and router in the right order. See our article Restart your internet equipment the right way for the steps.

5. Distance and interference

• Move closer to the router and test again. Walls, floors, metal shelving, mirrors and fish tanks weaken the signal.
• Keep the router in a central, open, raised spot, not on the floor, inside a cabinet or behind a TV.
• Microwaves, cordless phones and baby monitors can interfere, especially on 2.4 GHz.

6. 2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz

• 2.4 GHz: reaches farther and goes through walls better, but is slower and more crowded.
• 5 GHz (and 6 GHz on newer equipment): much faster, but shorter range.

If you are close to the router, 5 GHz is usually better. Many routers combine both under one name and choose for you. Some older printers and smart devices only work on 2.4 GHz.

7. Dead zones? Consider mesh or access points

If some rooms always have weak signal, a single router may not be enough for your space. A mesh Wi-Fi system or wired access points spread coverage evenly. Range extenders are a cheaper option but often cut speed in half.

What to send us

If the problem continues, include this in your request so we can help faster:

• Whether it affects one device or all devices.
• Speed test results, wired and wireless, with the time of day.
• Where in the office the problem happens.
• When it started and whether anything changed (new equipment, a move, a storm).
• Your internet provider and, if you know it, your plan's speed.
• A photo of the modem and router with their lights visible.