Why is my upload speed slow?

Knowing the reasons behind slow upload speeds gives you, the user, the know-how to restoring faster speeds. Upload speeds can be slow for several reasons. The main issues tend to be where you’ve placed the modem or router and the number of connected devices. Apps running in the background that take up a large bandwidth, such as software updates, could also be a culprit. Otherwise, the issues could be with the fiber or the service provider, whereby the fiber connection could be affected, or your service provider has a network outage.

Let’s dive into the possible causes and their solutions.

Router and modem

If you notice sudden fluctuations in the internet speed, then the first thing to check is the router or modem. Depending on the brand you have, you might see the lights are blinking differently, or, based on a speed test, the upload and download speeds are much slower than what you’ve paid for.

Solution 1:As with all devices, before trying anything else, restart the router and modem. That’s a quick way of refreshing the device, clearing the memory, and resetting tasks it performs. It’s a similar concept when your phone, tablet, or computer stops working and a quick restart restores it to normal.

Solution 2: Your modem could be having a hard time supporting requests made from it on different devices. After the restart, consider closing or disconnecting apps and devices that you aren’t using. That’s meant to improve the upload speed.

Solution 3: If the above approaches fail, then consider having your service provider check it out. Not a lot of them give their clients the best or latest modems in the market. When the disconnections become too many, it might be time to upgrade to a modem and router that provides faster and stable speeds.

Background programs with large bandwidth

We aren’t always aware of apps running in the background. When there are large files, such as updates, getting downloaded without your knowledge, you find that they are competing with what you’re trying to do. That ends up affecting your device performance, and not only your computer. For example, if you use Dropbox or other cloud storage apps, you’ll find that it takes up quite a lot of bandwidth, slowing you down.

Solution:opt to close or limit apps that require synching, especially if you’re stored large files. Otherwise, you can choose to pause auto-updates, such as for Windows or iOS, and do so when you’re not using your device.

Outdated hardware

Some devices cannot support high internet speeds; that’s why your old phone or a family member’s is buffering a lot. A quick way to tell is to note who complains the most about the internet being slow on their devices.

Solution: Upgrade your devices since they do have the latest sensors and antennas, thus making them able to support faster broadband. You’ll also find that they tend to still retain a Wi-Fi connection even in longer distances. You don’t have to update all your devices, but if you can, focus on those you frequently use.

An issue with the fiber line

We’ve moved to fiber so that we can enjoy super-high speeds. Therefore, it’s unfortunate that after such an upgrade, you’re still unhappy about the upload speeds. If that’s the case, then there means the connection to the fiber cable wasn’t made properly.

Solution: It’s not something you can troubleshoot yourself unless otherwise skilled. You’ll have to call a technician to check the problem and act accordingly to fix it.

An issue with the service provider

Not all companies are made the same, and some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are better than others. One quick way to evaluate if they could be the problem is to check forums such as Reddit to find out what others are saying about the ISP. From there, you can decide on what the next steps should be.

Solution: If they have a record of bad service, it might be time to move on. Otherwise, if you should be getting high speeds but aren’t, then call the service provider as the issue could be on their end. They can reboot your router and modem remotely or send a technician to work on the problem.

Your location

The physical infrastructure required to connect people on the internet is not the same across the country or globe. You will find that, especially in rural areas, the necessary equipment is not on-site, and thus getting a good internet connection, let alone good speeds, is not possible.

Solution: Uprooting your life might not be an option, but consider reaching out to a service provider to create the necessary infrastructure. There is power in numbers, so think of rallying your local community behind the need for a better connection.

Common causes of slow upload speeds and their solutions

Final thoughts

There’s plenty you can do to troubleshoot slow upload speeds. As always, if these at-home solutions don’t work, consider escalating the issue or changing the hardware. Enjoying reliable internet speeds ought to be the norm and not a luxury.

FAQs

How can I check upload speeds?

There are free websites, such as Speedtest.net and Fast.com, to check the internet speed, both the upload and download. From there, compare the rates with what you were promised.

Do VPNs help with internet speeds?

You can further improve your internet health using a VPN if you’re not satisfied with your ISP. They offer multiple benefits, including server locations, security, and price.