We will examine and explain some common and hopefully easy ways to help you diagnose and maximize your internet’s potential. Even with broadband fiber internet, factors beyond your router may cause moments of slower internet speeds. 

Restarting devices
One of the first things you can do if you are experiencing slow internet is diagnose if it is just one device or multiple devices. When only one device is slow, the problem is most likely localized to that singular device. From here, you can try to restart or reset the device. Sometimes, communications within the device can break down; restarting it can allow it to restart correctly. Restarting a device can also allow firmware or software to update. We will talk more about this later. 

If you have decided that more than one device is running slowly, you can try restarting your router. Some routers and devices have power buttons and can be restarted by simply turning them on and off. Others do not and must have the power cord unplugged. When restarting a device, it is recommended that it be off for at least 5 minutes for it to power cycle.

Restarting your devices is like giving your car a tune-up. It is maintenance that should be performed regularly to keep your equipment running in tip-top shape.

Updating firmware and software
Sometimes, devices do not automatically update their firmware and software during the restart process. There are countless reasons why a device may not update, including device and organization settings. Most devices can be updated manually. The best way to learn how to update a device is by using the instruction manual, a search engine, asking a friend or family member for help, or calling Steuben County REMC Broadband Internet at 260-665-3563. 

Updating your firmware and software is like updating your car’s engine, transmission, or any other part to a newer version.