There are many factors that can cause slower Broadband or reduced performance beyond just the network itself. Your router and devices, wireless performance, home wiring, router placement and even the time of day can all make it slower.

Start by visiting our Network Status page to check for any network issues and how long we expect any problems to last.

1. The devices you are using
   
   The age of your device can be a factor in your Wi-Fi performance. Typically, the newer your equipment, the faster the wireless speed it will support. (For example: a smartphone from 2013 can handle around half the Wi-Fi speeds of a modern phone).
   
   Test your speed using Speedtest tool to see the speed from your router to the device
   
   Different things can cause a device to slow down, which can give the impression that your broadband is slow. This includes: Running lots of programs at once, insufficient RAM, web browser add-ons and too many startup programs.

2. How you are using broadband in your home
   
   Broadband speed is shared with every device connected to your Router. So if multiple devices are using the internet at the same time, they'll each get a share of the available speed.
   
   Streaming (watching live TV, YouTube or Netflix) and online gaming use more of your bandwidth, so if anyone in your household is doing this it could make your broadband slower for everyone else.
   
   If you have devices connected that you don’t use, we recommend you disconnect them.

3. How your home network is set up
   
   Your wireless set-up has a big impact on broadband speed, so by improving your set-up you can enjoy faster broadband.
   
   Try and place your Router close to where you'll use the internet most. Obstacles like walls, doors, wardrobes and electrical devices can make a huge difference to Wi-Fi speed. Restarting your devices once in a while can help you get the best connection. Turn off Wi-Fi on your device (or put it in aeroplane mode for a few seconds), then switch it back on.

4. Your router connection
   
   It’s important to make sure that you leave your Router switched on and always connected. This will let us give you the fastest and most stable service, and ensure your Router is kept updated.

5. The time of day
   
   Certain electrical devices can cause interference that can impact Wi-Fi performance. It's worth trying to identify if anything like a dishwasher or dryer being used corresponds to when you are experiencing problems.
   
   We've invested heavily in the network, so everyone gets a fast connection even at the busiest times. But similar to rush-hour traffic, the speed you'll get depends partly on how many people are using the network. During peak periods, usually 8pm to 10pm, you may sometimes notice slightly slower speeds.