How can I increase my download or upload speed?
Your speed will vary by the speed you subscribed to, how heavily your home is using the Internet, whether you’re connecting over WiFi and the max speed your device is capable of. The heavier the load on your Internet, the slower your speed and the longer it will take to download or send files, stream videos update files online and connect online.
Check Your Plan: Check what download and upload speeds come with your WOW ! Internet service plan. Contact us to upgrade to a higher or symmetrical speed (where available).
Check Your Device: Make sure your device can receive the speeds you have subscribed to. Things like the network card, mobile device model, WiFi standards and hardware can limit the maximum data that is transferred. Learn about device limitations
Connect Directly: If using WiFi, try switching to a wired connection via Ethernet, as this can significantly reduce ping by providing a more stable connection. Also make sure your wired connection is tight.
Get Closer to WiFi Devices: When using WiFi, move closer to the router or add more WiFi devices to improve the signal strength you’re tapping into. You could also try switching to a different WiFi channel or upgrading to a dual-band router.
Close Applications: Close any background apps, programs or devices that are using internet bandwidth, such as file downloads, streaming services, or cloud backups. These can increase ping by consuming bandwidth and creating network congestion.
Reduce Congestion: Reduce the number of devices using your internet or do high-bandwidth activities when there’s less activity in your home. Speed can be impacted by several users, lots of devices, heavy gaming, streaming TV, video calls and large files
Restart Your Modem or Router: Restart your modem, gateway, or WiFi router by turning it off for about 30 seconds and then turning it back on. This can resolve temporary network issues or reset connections with WOW!
Check for Malware or Viruses: Run antivirus software to scan for and remove any malware that could be slowing down your computer or stealing bandwidth.
Choose a Closer Gaming Server: When you’re playing a video game and it allows you to select a server, choose one closer to your home. The further the server is from your home, the higher the ping, the poorer the gaming experience. Learn how download/upload impact Gaming performance
Upgrade Your Speed: Your type of internet use or level of activity in your home may need a higher speed. Contact us to upgrade your speed.
Need Help Improving Your Performance?
Learn how download/upload impact Gaming performance
Upgrade to a higher speed to keep pace with your usage
Optimize your WiFi if you’re testing on a WiFi-connected device