Is your current internet connection frustratingly slow? Or is the connection so unstable that you can’t do video conferencing? In both situations, you need to understand the factors that affect internet quality and speed. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to resolve the issues to optimize internet efficiency. Read on for valuable insights.
The following factors affect internet speed and quality:
1. Location
Location, in this context, has two meanings. One is the geographical location of your home or business; the other is where you place your router.
Internet quality and speed are determined by the proximity of your physical location to your provider’s coverage area. To check your proximity, inquire about your provider’s coverage map. The map will show you the areas they cover, including the distance of various locations from their central mast. The closer you are, the better is the internet quality. Therefore, choose a provider that’s close to your area.
However, there are areas where internet connectivity is a challenge, especially in rural areas. The regular network connections and wiring needed in standard network provision might not work in a rural setting. Therefore, you should select an internet provider that utilizes rural microwave technology to serve you if you’re in a rural area. This system uses microwave links in internet provision.
Selecting a provider based on your location solely is not the best way to go, as there are other factors to consider as well. Check out this list of Internet service providers nz that gives you insights about internet speeds, costs, and contract info.
Router location is critical if you’re utilizing wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi). Where you place your router determines the range or coverage of your internet. You should minimize the distance between the router and your device for maximum efficiency. You can do this by placing your Wi-Fi in a central location such that the internet is equally distributed to all your spaces.
Another consideration when placing your router is to minimize obstructions. Obstructions, such as doors and walls, alter the internet speed by a significant margin.
2. Hardware
Generally, you access the internet through various devices such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones.
Unknown to many, the ‘standard’ of your equipment affects internet speed. If your laptop utilizes old technology, you might find it challenging to enjoy reliable internet. The components that typically affect speed are Wi-Fi cards and adapters.
Ensure your hardware is updated as most innovations and upgrades enhance efficiency. With upgraded equipment, you’ll enjoy better internet quality and speed.
3. Type Of Connectivity
Different network connectivities have varying internet speeds. The difference in speed depends on technological advancements. Currently, there are 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz wireless transmission could service a larger area but at a slower internet speed, while 5GHz offers faster internet speed but is limited to a smaller area.
Your internet quality is also affected by the type of connection—whether you’re using cable or wireless connectivity. Generally, cable internet connectivity is faster than a wireless network.
Furthermore, your internet speed also depends on the accessories you utilize. Different Ethernet cables have varying efficiencies if you’re using cable internet. Therefore, you need to vet your equipment adequately before purchase.
4. Internet Use
How you utilize your internet also affects the speed of your internet. If you operate several applications or operations in one go, all of which use the internet, expect slow internet.
This is because the various applications will be competing for the same internet. It’s just like sharing a cake. If there are two or three of you, each will get a big portion. On the other hand, if there are ten of you, each will get a small slice.
Therefore, for faster internet speeds, refrain from running various operations concurrently.
5. Number Of Users
The number of internet users will affect your internet’s speed and quality in various ways.
One, there are certain times during the day when a sizable portion of the population in your area is using the internet. This typically happens during working hours, but you could also experience unstable internet in the evening.
You usually experience slow internet if those within your area use the same internet provider as you. Consider using the internet during off-peak hours.
The number of Wi-Fi users also affects internet speed. The cake concept previously mentioned also applies in this case. Therefore, the more people in your home or office utilizing the same Wi-Fi, the slower your internet speed. You can counter this by upgrading your subscription to a higher bandwidth to accommodate multiple users without compromising internet quality.
Conclusion
The internet is crucial in running most operations, whether at work or home. Given this, productivity suffers due to slow internet speed. To ensure you get the most from your internet, consider looking out for the key factors mentioned in this article as you utilize your internet.