If you’re experiencing slow broadband speeds, the culprit might be the number of devices connected to your router. Recent findings from Uswitch reveal that the average British household has around 16 web-enabled gadgets spread throughout their home.
Some of these devices, like video doorbells, remain continuously online, transmitting data over the internet. This constant activity can lead to slower connections, affecting tasks such as video calls and streaming services like Netflix, especially in homes with basic internet setups.
Think of broadband as a road – the more traffic it carries, the slower it becomes. While properties with full-fibre connections offer wider “roads” to accommodate increased traffic, older copper cables struggle to keep up.
Another issue arises from ‘phantom’ devices, which are products that stay connected to the router despite not being actively used. These devices often check for updates or exchange data with the router, adding to the network load.
To enhance your connectivity, consider upgrading to faster full-fibre speeds if your home is filled with smart devices like TVs, doorbells, speakers, plugs, and robot vacuums. Additionally, identify and remove any unused devices to free up bandwidth and potentially boost your internet speeds instantly.
Max Beckett, a broadband expert at Uswitch, highlights the impact of dormant gadgets on network performance, emphasizing the importance of periodically disconnecting or powering down devices that are no longer in use. Managing connected devices and limiting simultaneous high-definition video streaming can significantly improve your internet experience, even without a full fibre connection.
By conducting a simple digital declutter and optimizing your connected devices, you can alleviate network congestion and enhance your broadband performance.