Money Saving Expert shares 8 ways to improve broadband speed

If your Wi-Fi isn’t strong enough for you to watch your favourite programme or to scroll social media, it can be frustrating.

To help you out, Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert (MSE) website has shared some ways you can improve your broadband speed.

How to improve your broadband speed in 8 ways

You can find out more about broadband speed via the MSE website.

Who is Martin Lewis?

Put your router in the right place

MSE says: “When using Wi-Fi, obviously the nearer you are to the router, the better your signal will be, and therefore the faster your broadband.

“Because Wi-Fi signals can't travel through large objects such as thick walls, it's crucial you have a clear path for the signal to travel to your laptop, tablet or smartphone.”

To help you get your router in the right place, it says to put it in a central location and have it positioned high up with no obstacles in its way.

You should also avoid hiding your router in a cupboard or drawer and you shouldn’t try to camouflage it by surrounding it with photos or ornaments.

Make sure your router is plugged into the best socket as MSE says: “Try using multiple phone sockets to see if you can get better speeds, though plugging your router directly into your main phone socket will generally work best.

“Just remember the distance between your router and devices should be kept to a minimum where possible.”

Ethernet cables could help boost your broadband speed

Ethernet cables can transfer data faster than Wi-Fi because it doesn’t encrypt data but wireless routers do.

There are more benefits with MSE saying: “Other benefits include much less interference, so you don't have to worry what frequency your neighbour is on, and a more reliable connection for devices such as games consoles and PCs, which don't need to be moved around the room.”

Broadband speed can be improved at home (Image: Getty)

Don’t put your router near other devices

Wireless devices, including routers, are prone to interference so turn off all electrical devices except the router and run a broadband speed test – do you notice a difference?

Things that can affect your signal include cordless phones, baby monitors, halogen lamps, dimmer switches, stereos, speakers, TVs and monitors.

The microwave can also have an impact, according to Ofcom.

A wireless booster could help

MSE says: “Wireless boosters are designed for folks with big homes or those with signal black spots where the signal isn't strong enough.

“However, the gadget just extends the wireless signal – it won't improve your general broadband speed or bandwidth.

“Boosters generally work with any provider, so you don't have to be with one in particular to use them.”

Your supplier may send one out for free so check with them before you buy one.

Turn off Wi-Fi on devices not in use

More devices connected to your Wi-Fi means your broadband speed will decrease.

Smartphones and tablets often work in the background so disconnect them from the Wi-Fi when they’re not being used.

Top tips for faster broadband

Use audio calls instead of video

If you work home and have calls using Wi-Fi, turning your video off can help your broadband speed as using only audio requires less internet connection.

You could also try starting calls outside the peak times like on the hour or half hour.

Try to manage your family’s online activity so you’re not all trying to do video calls, gaming or HD streaming all at the same time.

You could download video in advance rather than streaming, for example.

Extend your router’s range using home electrics

MSE says: “Virgin Media recommends powerline adapters over boosters, which use your electric wiring to send the router signal to other parts of your home.”

You’ll need to use the router’s adapter to connect the router to the nearest plug socket which means your internet connection is routed around your home.

MSE adds that you should then “plug another adapter into a socket, ideally where you are experiencing weak signal, and you should see a noticeable improvement in the connection strength.”

Recommended reading:

• Martin Lewis opens up about his 'dark days' as a trusted voice in the UK
• Experts reveal the 5 simple mistakes that could be slowing down your Wi-Fi
• Brits could save up to £200 a year on broadband bills by making this change

It adds: “You can then connect your laptop or another device either by Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi, depending on the kit you choose.”

Do a spring clean on your computer

There are some things you can check on your computer to help with broadband speed. These include checking that you’re anti-virus is up to date and making sure you have the latest browser.

Clear your cache, stop automatic updates and stop background apps as this can also help with your broadband speed.