If your internet speeds are not up to par, the reason might be quite straightforward. Uswitch reports that many homeowners are unaware of the number of devices connected to their router, with the average British household having approximately 16 web-enabled devices scattered throughout. Some of these devices, like video doorbells, continuously send data over the internet, potentially slowing down activities such as video calls and streaming services like Netflix, especially in homes with basic internet connections.
Broadband can be likened to a road, where increased traffic leads to slower speeds. Properties with full fibre optic connections have larger capacity “roads” that can handle more traffic, while older copper cables may struggle to keep up. Another common issue is the presence of ‘phantom’ devices, which remain connected to the router even when not in use, consuming bandwidth by constantly checking for updates or communicating with the router.
To improve connectivity, consider upgrading to faster full-fibre speeds if your home is filled with smart devices like TVs, doorbells, speakers, plugs, and robot vacuums. Additionally, disconnect any unused devices to potentially see an immediate speed boost. According to Max Beckett, a broadband expert at Uswitch, inactive gadgets and sensors can congest your connection, leading to frustrating buffering during activities like watching movies or playing games.
It’s crucial to realize that WiFi issues are not solely caused by the number of users online; some devices consume bandwidth even when idle for days. Conducting a digital spring clean by disconnecting or powering down unused devices can significantly enhance performance. While a full fibre broadband connection is the most reliable solution to prevent buffering, managing connected devices and limiting simultaneous high-definition video streaming can also make a substantial difference.