WiFi 6 promises incredibly fast internet speeds in your home. So it’s such a bummer if you can’t post pictures, send files, or connect to Zoom calls immediately. Well, the main culprit is your internet upload speed.
Upload speeds are just as important as download speeds. It determines how fast you can transfer files and connect to servers.
To fix this problem, you need to understand upload speeds and how it affects your internet speed in general. More importantly, how can you fix this issue at home?
Let’s find out below.
Table of Contents
Why is my upload speed so slow?
Most of the time, the main reason for the slowing in upload speeds is your internet service provider (ISP).
Some ISPs would often reduce it to give way to other users. So the best way to fix this issue is to contact your ISP.
But your internet provider isn’t the only reason. Other factors include:
- Outdated router driver and firmware
- Router hardware
- Too many connected devices
- Firewall or DNS settings
In fact, some experts estimate that the amount of data being transferred through mobile networks each month is doubling every year.
This means that even though your mobile phone is connected to Wi-Fi, it may still be experiencing slow internet speeds due to congestion.
Why do you need fast upload speed?
Upload speeds determine transfer speeds and how long it takes to connect to a server. Basically, everything that you send through the internet depends on it.
The minimum requirement is 3-5 Mbps. So if you have a slower result after a speed test, it’s time to contact your internet provider.
Good upload speeds should allow you to do the following effortlessly:
- Connect to Zoom calls
- Send files
- Post 4k videos
- Stream games
It also assures you that you don’t need to spend hours waiting for the upload process to finish. Overall, it gives you a smooth browsing experience.
How to fix slow upload speeds
Fortunately, you can fix this issue at home. Here are some quick solutions to improve your network’s performance.
Don’t worry, we’ll start with the simple steps first:
- Change browsers
- Upload one at a time
- Check computer settings
If those didn’t work, you can try these options.
Use an ethernet/wired connection
A wireless connection is efficient, but it is slower compared to a wired connection. So if you’re having slower upload speeds, consider connecting your computer through ethernet.
Connecting through an Ethernet cable improves your internet connection by up to 100%.
Although wired connections aren’t applicable to mobile phones and tablets, you can switch to a 5GHz channel instead.
Change to a modern router
Old routers can deliver decent speeds, but they can’t support as many devices as a new one. Just like any e-device, routers need upgrades so you can enjoy maximum upload speeds.
Luckily there are a lot of options to choose from. But be sure to choose either a dual-band or a tri-band router.
New routers and mesh wifi systems like Netgear Orbi, TP-Link, Eero, and Google Wifi can support multiple devices. Either wired or wireless connections, you can enjoy optimum signal strength and stable internet speeds.
Update router firmware and driver
Your router’s firmware is basically its software. So over time, it needs to update to perform well.
Routers encounter bugs from time to time. Although it’s not required, it’s better to update your firmware if you’re experiencing slow speeds.
Reset your router
If the steps concerning routers didn’t work, you might want to consider factory resetting your router.
Resetting your router removes unnecessary data and existing settings. But it lets your router perform its best.
We have a couple of guidelines ready if you’re using any of the routers below. Check them out!
Check VPN service & Antivirus software
VPN services and antivirus software let you browse the internet safely and smoothly. But sometimes they can slow down your internet for these reasons:
- Antivirus scans uploaded files for malware and viruses.
- Antivirus isn’t compatible with device.
- VPN doesn’t offer excellent service.
Try to disable your VPN service and change your antivirus software. Conduct a speed test and see if there are any changes.
Upgrade your internet plan
The problem isn’t always fixable on your end. Sometimes a slow internet can be because of your plan’s data cap. Or even the amount of users that are connected to the network.
With so many people accessing the internet, it makes sense that bandwidth would become a bottleneck.
The best option now is to upgrade your internet plan. Get a better plan with a bigger bandwidth so many devices can enjoy fast speeds.
If the upload speed is still bad after getting an upgrade, then maybe it’s time to change your internet provider.
The Final Word
Slow upload speeds are a bummer. But you don’t have to call your ISP all the time. Well, unless you want to get an upgrade.
So fix your internet and get better upload speeds at home.
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