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Troubleshooting

Why Is My Speed Test Slower Than My Plan?

If your speed test shows much less than what you're paying for, something is getting in the way. Here's how to find and fix it.

Updated 2026

  1. 1

    Test wired first

    WiFi always slows things down. Plug directly into the router with Ethernet and re-run the test. If wired speeds are fine, the issue is your WiFi, not the line.

  2. 2

    Reboot the router and modem

    Power both off for 60 seconds. Modems especially benefit from a full restart — they re-negotiate the line speed with the ISP on boot.

  3. 3

    Check for interference on the phone line

    For DSL connections, every extension socket, old filter and unfiltered device degrades line speed. Use a master socket test: plug the router directly into the master socket (usually the first socket where the cable enters the house).

  4. 4

    Rule out peak-hour congestion

    Test at different times. If speeds are fine at 6am but slow at 8pm, your local ISP node is congested — report it to your ISP.

  5. 5

    Contact your ISP

    If wired speeds are consistently 50% or more below your plan, your ISP needs to investigate. Most will run a line test remotely and send an engineer if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do ISPs throttle your connection?
Some do on certain plan types or during peak hours, especially on unlimited plans. A VPN test can reveal throttling — if speeds improve through a VPN, your ISP is throttling specific traffic.
Should I upgrade my router?
If you have an ISP-supplied router older than 3–4 years, a third-party router can improve WiFi speeds significantly. It won't improve the line speed itself but will make better use of it.