my wifi has went down in mbps on download and internet speednis slower than normal

Optimizing Your Home Internet: Troubleshooting Slow Speeds and Connectivity Issues

Having a reliable and fast internet connection is essential in today’s digital world, whether for work, gaming, streaming, or staying connected with loved ones. However, many homeowners encounter issues such as decreased download speeds and unstable connections, especially after moving to a new residence. If you’ve noticed your Wi-Fi performance has declined—such as slower download speeds or laggy gaming experiences—this guide will help you diagnose and potentially resolve these common issues.

Understanding the Issue

Initially, your internet setup with Verizon provided excellent performance, with download speeds reaching nearly 200 Mbps and minimal lag during online gaming. Since relocating to a new residence, you may have experienced a significant drop in these speeds and connection stability. This decline can be caused by various factors, including changes in your home environment, equipment issues, or signal interference.

Common Causes of Reduced Internet Performance

1. Physical Distance from the Router: The farther your devices are from the Wi-Fi source, the weaker the signal can become, leading to slower speeds and dropped connections.

2. Obstructions and Interference: Walls, furniture, electronic devices, and neighboring networks can interfere with Wi-Fi signals, reducing overall performance.

3. Outdated or Incompatible Equipment: Older routers or extenders may not support the latest standards, limiting their effectiveness.

4. Network Congestion or Tower Issues: Sometimes, external factors such as network congestion or issues with the cellular towers (particularly if using mobile broadband services) can impact speeds.

Strategies to Improve Your Internet Performance

1. Position Your Router Optimally
2. Place your router in a central, elevated location within your home.

3. Avoid placing it near thick walls, metal objects, or electronic devices that can cause interference.

4. Upgrade or Reconfigure Your Equipment

5. Ensure your router supports current Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6) for better performance.

6. Consider replacing outdated routers with newer models compatible with your internet plan.

7. Utilize Signal Extenders or Mesh Networks

8. If you’re using a Wi-Fi extender, ensure it is properly configured and within range of the main router.

9. For larger homes or complex layouts, consider investing in a mesh Wi-Fi system for broader coverage and more reliable connections.

10. Check Your Internet Plan and External Connectivity

11. Verify that your current plan from Verizon provides the speeds you require