Why is my fibre internet slow?

How can I check my internet speed?

For best speed test results, plug a computer into the router with an Ethernet (Cat5e or higher) cable, making sure the cable is not damaged. Go to lakelandnetworks.com/speedtest and click the “Go” button. After the test is run you’ll receive a shareable link with your results. 

What factors affect my internet speed?

Some of the most common factors that affect internet speed include:

1. Connection to the router. Speeds can be different depending on whether your device is connected wirelessly or through a wired ethernet (Cat5e or higher) cable. Generally, connection to the internet is faster and more reliable when connected directly to the router. 
2. The age of the device, the operating system and the browser that the device is using.
3. Other devices connecting to the Internet. IMPORTANT: We recommend using newer devices to reach maximum Internet speeds. If you use older devices on your home network, not only will they not be able to reach maximum speeds, but they may also slow down your whole network.

WiFi

If you’re connecting to the network through WiFi, there are additional factors that can slow down your Internet speed:

1. Transmitting through objects. The material those objects are made out of will determine how much it impacts the wireless speed. Metal and concrete are the hardest for wireless signals to pass through, while wood, drywall and insulation are not as dense but can still affect the signal.
   How to solve: If possible, move your router so that its signal is not impeded.
2. Router location. Your router may be in a poor location which can cause the WiFi to have trouble reaching your device. Usually the best location for your router is on the main floor of the house, several feet off the floor. The LED lights should be pointing in the direction that you want to cover. Make sure the router is in the open and not being blocked by anything. The more objects the signal has to travel through, the more degraded, or weaker, the signal will be when it gets to your device. Avoid metal objects and electronic equipment. Consider if duct work could be blocking the signal to another room or floor.
3. Device location. If the router is having problems connecting to a device that is farther away, it will affect the communication to all other devices. We now offer a wireless extender for our customers. This extender can connect to the faster 5 GHz frequency and can help to reach places that have a weak connection with the router. Please contact our Support Team for more information.
4. Saturation of the WiFi signal. Saturation occurs when there are numerous wireless routers surrounding your location.
5. Older devices. The router will lower the signal quality to accommodate an older device, affecting all other devices on the network.