Wi-Fi download and upload rates, general internet connection not matching other devices in my house, internet cuts out on occasion for a few seconds

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Troubleshooting Inconsistent Wi-Fi Speeds and Intermittent Connection Drops on a Laptop

Many users experience frustrating network issues that disrupt productivity and leisure activities alike. If you’re noticing that your laptop’s Wi-Fi download and upload speeds are significantly lower than expected, or if your connection drops intermittently, you’re not alone. This article explores common causes and actionable steps to diagnose and resolve such problems, based on real-world observations.

Common Symptoms of Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues

Reduced Internet Speed: Expecting high-speed downloads (e.g., 30 MB/sec) but only achieving a fraction of that (around 3-4 Mbps).
Frequent Disconnections: Wi-Fi icon shows fluctuations, and the connection drops for several seconds during browsing or gaming sessions.
Device-Specific Problems: Other devices in your household operate normally, with no reported issues, indicating a potential device-specific problem.

Scenario Overview

A typical case involves a laptop experiencing degraded internet performance over months. Despite the internet plan providing up to 280 Mbps, speed tests reveal significantly lower transfer rates—sometimes as low as 30 Mbps on Ookla, with upload speeds around 10 Mbps. The user observes frequent disconnections, especially during online gaming or streaming, with connection interruptions lasting up to ten seconds.