Internet very slow despite high speed: causes, tests and solutions
It is annoying when your device shows “full bars” and the connection seems stable, but websites only load slowly, videos stutter, or a download seems to take forever. A strong Wi-Fi signal does not automatically mean high speed.
Often the problem does not lie with the provider, but with local factors in your home network. The good news: with a bit of systematic analysis and the right measures, you can noticeably improve your connection, without a new contract or costly additional hardware.
07.10.2025 | Reading time: 5 minutes
Why is the internet slow despite a good connection?
When the internet feels slow, many people are quick to blame their provider. In most cases, though, the real issue comes from within their own setup.
- Too many devices on Wi-Fi: when several people are streaming, gaming online, or uploading and downloading large amounts of data at the same time, the total bandwidth is shared. Particularly data-intensive applications such as 4K streaming or cloud backups can massively slow down the network for all other users.
- Overloaded frequency bands: the widely used 2.4 GHz band is stable and offers good range, but in densely populated areas it is heavily overloaded. Many neighboring Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth devices, baby monitors, or microwaves use the same frequency and cause interference.
- Unfavorable router position: even a powerful router is of little use if it is hidden in a cabinet or placed behind thick walls. Concrete, metal, and water (e.g. aquariums or underfloor heating) absorb radio waves particularly strongly.
- Outdated technology: routers or devices that still use old standards such as 802.11g are real bottlenecks. Missing firmware updates can also limit speed and security.
- Background processes: many devices run unnoticed cloud backups, updates, or virus scans that consume bandwidth. Even if the Wi-Fi signal is strong, the internet can feel slow as a result.
- Provider issues: especially at peak times, it can happen that your provider has overloaded network segments or throttles certain amounts of data depending on the plan.
How to find out where the problem lies?
Before you change your settings or buy a new router, you should clarify whether the cause really lies with the Wi-Fi or with the line itself.
With these tests, you can quickly narrow down whether the problem lies with the provider, the router, or the Wi-Fi signal.
- Speed test via cable: connect a PC directly to the router with an Ethernet cable and start a speed test. If the speed here matches what is agreed in your contract, the problem clearly lies with the Wi-Fi.
- Speed test via Wi-Fi: repeat the test in different places in your home, right next to the router, through a wall, and in more remote rooms. This way you can see how much the signal quality fluctuates
- Check contractual bandwidth: many users compare their measurements with theoretical maximum values. More important, however, is to compare the results with the speed you’ve actually subscribed to. A 100 Mbit line often delivers 80–90 Mbit in practice – which is completely normal
With these tests, you can quickly narrow down whether the problem lies with the provider, the router, or the Wi-Fi signal.
Practical solutions for more speed
Tip 1: Place the router correctly
The position of your router is crucial. Place it as centrally, openly, and elevated as possible. Avoid cupboards, corners, and locations directly next to sources of interference such as TVs, speakers, or microwaves. Even small changes in placement can make a big difference.
Tip 2: Use frequency bands wisely
The 2.4 GHz band covers longer distances but is slower and more congested. The 5 GHz band offers significantly more speed and stability but only works over short distances. Modern routers and mesh systems can automatically assign devices to the appropriate band (band steering).
Tip 3: Reduce device load and set priorities
Many devices connected at the same time put a strain on the Wi-Fi. Therefore, connect data-hungry devices via LAN cable, such as game consoles or smart TVs. With QoS (Quality of Service) settings, you can also prioritize certain applications – for example, video conferences or online gaming.
Tip 4: Update firmware and drivers
An outdated router or old drivers are often the invisible bottlenecks in your network. Firmware updates not only bring new features but also improve performance and security. Regularly check whether updates are available, both for the router and for your devices.
Tip 5: Avoid channel congestion
Many routers transmit by default on the same channels. If your neighbors are using these as well, speed can drop significantly. Through the router menu, you can manually select a less crowded channel or activate automatic channel optimization.
Tip 6: Extend Wi-Fi range
In large apartments or houses, a single router is rarely enough. Repeaters are the quick solution to fill dead zones. Mesh systems offer even more convenience, as they enable seamless roaming. Powerline adapters are useful when thick walls block the signal – they use the electrical wiring for data transmission.
Tip 7: Monitor background programs
Cloud backups, automatic updates, or antivirus scans often run in the background and slow down the network. Schedule these activities intentionally for times when you don’t actively need the internet.
Tip 8: Use modern hardware
If your router is more than five years old, you should consider an upgrade. Routers with WiFi 6 distribute data more efficiently and provide greater stability when many devices are connected at the same time. Switching your DNS server to providers like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) can also deliver noticeable improvements in loading times.
When is it worth calling your provider?
Sometimes the problem lies beyond your control. Contact your provider if:
- even the wired connection is significantly slower than stated in your contract,
- you regularly experience latency issues, disconnections, or high ping times,
- your speed consistently remains well below the agreed value – despite optimized hardware and router settings.
FAQ: common questions
Why is my internet slow even though I have full Wi-Fi bars?
Full bars only indicate a strong wireless signal, not high transmission speed. If many devices are active or the band is overloaded, the speed will still remain low.
Does a Wi-Fi repeater really help?
Yes, if the problem is due to range. For larger apartments, a mesh system is better because it works seamlessly and automatically manages multiple access points.
Which is better: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?
2.4 GHz is suitable for devices that are further away. 5 GHz is significantly faster but only works well over short distances, ideal for streaming or gaming near the router.
Can my router itself be the problem?
Yes. Old routers or those with outdated Wi-Fi standards are often the bottleneck. Upgrading to WiFi 6 can massively improve performance.
When is it really the provider’s fault?
If the wired connection is also slow or if you are consistently far below your contracted speed, you should contact your provider.
