Why is your broadband so slow? (and how to speed it up)

Jonathan Victoria • 07 May 2026

Frustrated with slow internet? Here’s how to fix it fast.

If your internet keeps buffering, dropping out, or crawling along when you need it most, you’re not alone. Even though UK broadband speeds have improved massively in recent years, plenty of households still deal with frustratingly slow connections.

Ofcom’s latest Connected Nation’s report for 2025 identified the UK’s average broadband speed sits at 223Mbps - yet many homes experience far less than that in real-world use. 

The good news? Slow broadband can usually be fixed. Let us walk you through some key factors and common causes of slow broadband, and give you some tips and tricks on what you can do to speed things up.

What counts as “slow” broadband in the UK?

The answer to this is somewhat subjective. Not everyone’s idea of slow will be the same.

Some people rely heavily on fast and reliable broadband at home to deal with multiple devices, video calling and streaming needs, and general connectivity. Others are perfectly happy with enough that allows their phone to access the internet and nothing more.

“Slow” broadband then depends on what you need for your household.

Typical UK broadband speeds 

Around 97% of UK homes have access to at least 30Mbps, with part-fibre - also known as fibre-to-the-cabinet or FTTC - being available to over 98% of the country.

However, these numbers are average statistics. Speeds can vary hugely depending on postcode, property, and provider. More rural areas are prone to slower speeds and less reliability since they aren’t prioritised by providers and networks.

Quick rule of thumb:

If your connection struggles with Netflix, Zoom calls, or multiple users online at once, it’s probably too slow for your needs.

The most common reasons your broadband may be slow

Slow broadband usually isn’t random - there’s almost always a cause behind it.

Too many devices connected

Modern homes are packed with connected tech: Personal devices such as phones, laptops, tablets, Smart TVs and streaming devices, even smart speakers, cameras, and thermostats.

The more devices you have online, the more your bandwidth is split. Even a “fast” connection can feel slow if 10+ devices are using it at once.

You’re on an outdated broadband package

Not all broadband is equal. ADSL is an older and outdated connection, typically offering under 20Mbps. All providers don’t actively promote packages using this connection, instead opting for part or full fibre connections. Part fibre, or FTTC, gives between 20-100Mbps, while full fibre is 100Mbps+. 

Fibre and full fibre delivers faster speeds on a more stable connection, so if you find that your speeds aren’t consistent and you experience a lot of drop outs, you should consider upgrading (if you can).

Poor WiFi signal in your home

Your broadband might actually be fine - but your WiFi isn’t. Common issues that might slow down your signal in various rooms include:

• Router positioned in a bad place (too close to the ground or window, stuck behind/in something etc.)
• Thick walls blocking signal
• Distance from the router

Signs it’s a WiFi issue:

• Fast speeds near the router
• Slow speeds upstairs or in other rooms

Sometimes, all it takes is to move the router to a more ideal location. There are also methods and other devices you can get to boost your signal around your home (see next section).

Peak-time congestion

Ever notice your internet slows down in the evening? That’s because more people are online, especially between the hours of 8-10pm.

At these times, the networks get congested which leads to speeds dropping. Ofcom data shows peak-time speeds can dip compared to maximum performance due to network congestion .

This isn’t so much of a problem on newer FTTP connections or those with higher speeds as the impact is likely unnoticeable, but for those on slower speeds - particularly on ADSL or slower FTTC connection - the drop in speeds may be very noticeable.

Your router is outdated or struggling

Routers don’t last forever. Older models can’t handle modern speeds, struggle with multiple devices, and generally have weaker WiFi coverage

If your router is 4-5+ years old, it could be holding you back.

Quick ways to speed up your broadband

We’ve investigated potential causes, now we can look at potential fixes, the quick hacks you can do right now to get your speeds up.

• Restart your router: It sounds basic and it is, but it works. Sometimes all the router needs is a little reset. Restarting can clear temporary issues and refresh your connection. It’s even recommended that you should restart your router at least once a month
• Move your router: Another simple fix that gets overlooked. Place your router in a central location in your home, off the floor and away from walls and obstructions so the signal can’t get impeded
• Switch WiFi bands: A little bit more technical but not overly so, most routers offer 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The former offers longer range but slower speeds, while the latter offers faster speed with a shorter range. Switching between them can instantly improve performance

How to switch WiFi bands

Changing your WiFi bands doesn’t require a technical degree. It’s simple once you know where to look.

1. On a web browser, entering the router’s IP address outlined on the back of the router (usually along the lines of 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
2. You should be on a login page. Enter your username and password that you use to enter your account with the provider
3. Locate the “Wireless”, “Advanced” or “WLAN” section (for some providers, you may have to go “Advanced Settings” first then find one of the other two)
4. You should have the option of either “Split” or “Seperate Bands”. If there is a toggle, switch that on. Otherwise, select that. You will now be able to create distinct network names (SSIDs) for 2.4GHz and 5GHz
5. Rename the networks with something to distinguish them (e.g., adding “-5GHz” to the end)

NOTE: If there is an option “Sync with 2.4GHz”, be sure to set that to “No” or “Off”. If it already is, leave it.

• Reduce device load: Disconnecting unused devices or those from guests who don’t come round often, pausing downloads or streaming, and using wired connections for key devices can all help
• Use WiFi boosters or mesh systems: The best bit of kit you can get are extenders/boosters or a mesh system. These help to extend your coverage across your home.

When it’s time to upgrade your broadband

Sometimes, no amount of tweaking or quick fix tips will help the problem. When you’re feeling like the speeds are simply too slow too often, it may be time to upgrade.

You should consider upgrading if:

• Your speed is consistently below 30Mbps
• Multiple users struggle to stay online
• Streaming or gaming regularly buffers
• You’re still on ADSL or older fibre

Why upgrading matters

We live in a digital world where having a strong, fast and reliable WiFi connection is imperative to a great amount of things, be it for your work life or personal life.

Many households are on packages that no longer match their usage. With full fibre coverage in the UK now sitting at around 70%, you likely could get something that better suits your needs.

Should you switch broadband provider? 

There isn’t always a clear-cut yes or no answer to this question as it depends on circumstance. For some, there may not be many options available. One provider may offer something that no other provider can, so your best option is to stick with them.

But for those who do have the flexibility of choice, with multiple providers offering the same/similar speeds, then the question really becomes what more do you want.

If you’re just after faster speeds, you should certainly look into which provider offers the best connection. It could end up that the provider you are currently with is the best, in which case you wouldn’t switch.

If it’s money saving that you’re after then switching can be a big positive. Switching provider can save around £180 a year. Only 18% of UK households switch their broadband deal.

Every provider offers the best prices to new customers, while continuing an existing contract often comes more expensive. The worst is out of contract prices, which you really want to be vigilant on.

When your contract is up or coming towards its end, why not look into your options to find a better deal. Check out Broadband Finder and enter your postcode to find what’s available to you right now.