If your internet feels slower than it did before Christmas, you’re not imagining it. The days after the holidays are one of the busiest times of the year for home WiFi networks, and the reason is simple. We all added more devices.
New phones, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, security cameras, speakers, and smart home gadgets all connect to the same WiFi network. Your internet speed may be the same, but the network is suddenly handling a lot more traffic. Think of it like rush hour. Same roads, more cars.
The good news is you can often fix the problem without calling your internet provider or buying new equipment.
Start with the simplest step that actually works. Restart your modem and WiFi router. Turn them off, wait about 30 seconds, then turn them back on. This clears out temporary issues, forces devices to reconnect cleanly, and can install updates automatically. It sounds basic, but it fixes a surprising number of problems.
Next, check how many devices are connected to your WiFi. Most modern routers have a companion app that shows everything using your network. You may find old phones, tablets you no longer use, or devices you forgot about still connected. Removing unused devices frees up bandwidth immediately and helps the devices you actually use perform better.
Router placement also matters more than most people realize. If your router is tucked away in a closet, basement, or behind a TV, the signal has a harder time reaching the rest of the house. Moving it closer to the center of your home and away from other electronics can improve coverage right away. If your router has antennas, make sure they are pointed in different directions.
If your router is several years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Routers from around 2015 were not designed to handle dozens of devices streaming, gaming, and working online at the same time. Newer WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 routers are built to manage heavy traffic more efficiently and reduce slowdowns when multiple people are online at once.
For larger homes or houses with multiple floors, a mesh WiFi system may be worth considering. These systems use multiple access points placed around the house to spread the signal evenly, eliminating dead zones where WiFi struggles to reach.
While doing this story I checked my own mesh router. I didn’t remember how long ago I bought it but discovered it was 8 years ago. It still works but doesn’t provide the speeds I need for streaming when someone else is streaming on another TV and someone else is playing an online video game.
The good news is, if you need a new WiFi router, you’ll find them on sale this time of year.
One quick way to tell if your router is outdated is to look for the supported bands. If it does not mention 5 or 6 gigahertz, and your household relies on streaming TV, video games, or Zoom calls, an upgrade could make a noticeable difference.
Fast WiFi is no longer a luxury. It is something most homes rely on all day, every day. A few small changes can often bring your internet back up to speed and keep everything running smoothly.
