Nothing is more frustrating than being interrupted by on/off internet connections. It doesn’t matter if you’re working, watching a YouTube video, playing an online game, or attending your online classes via Zoom. The frustration is the same.
But can you do anything about it? If my internet keeps on disconnecting, do I have a way to solve this problem from my end? If you can’t wait for your internet provider to fix your internet issues, you should try if these FIVE common fixes will do the trick:
Table of Contents
#1 Too slow Internet speed
If your internet speed is too slow, you’ll experience dropping in and out of your connection. This is usually caused by multiple people using the connection at the same time.
For internet plans 25 Mbps or lower, this could be a common issue and could happen at specific times (for example: during the morning when 3 kids are doing their online classes, the dad is on Zoom meetings, and the mom is streaming a movie while doing chores).
To determine if your internet is just too slow, that’s why it randomly drops, install a speed test app on both your phone and web browser.
- If the speed test results are far from your existing internet plan, call your internet provider to have this fixed.
- If the speed test results show your internet plan is accurately being used, it may mean that your current package isn’t enough for your household’s consumption.
#2 Outdated Wi-fi Router
There could be several reasons why you have a wifi-router that’s out-of-date:
- If your connection is been installed five years ago or longer
- If your internet provider installed outdated routers with outdated firmware
The problem with having an old wi-fi router is that it cannot meet the latest Wi-Fi standards. FYI, Wi-Fi 6 (or what’s known as “802.11ax”) is the latest internet protocol, followed by Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 3, Wi-Fi 2, and the oldest, Wi-Fi 1.
Having a router with Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 protocols definitely helps you get optimum speeds, even if multiple people are connected to your Wi-Fi network.
Do note that some internet providers may have a rule about switching their company-provided routers. Give them a call and seek advice about newer router models. They might have better deals than buying from stores since you’re already an existing customer.
#3 Broken cables
If your router is up-to-date and you’re still having patchy internet connections, it may be due to a simpler (but hidden) problem: old or broken cables.
Depending on the type of connection you have, you might need to check several types of cable:
- Ethernet cable (connects your PC to the router, or your modem to the router). If your Ethernet cable is outdated, replace it with sturdier Cat-6 cable for faster connections.
- Phone cable (for DSL connections that rely on a phone and modem to connect online)
- Coaxial cable (for cable internet connections that links your modem to the cable network)
Any cable that becomes loose, broken, or outdated could affect the quality of your internet connections. It may be as simple as a cable plugged into the wrong spot. Or something more complicated like damaged cables due to water, rats or other external elements. For this reason, it’s important to have a regular maintenance schedule to check these cables and look out for issues. If you need to replace
#4 Modem not connecting to ISP
If your modem isn’t connecting to the ISP (internet service provider), you’ll need to call your internet provider so they can see if your modem is currently receiving or transmitting signals properly. Fortunately, most tech support can assist you with this issue instantly, and even reconnect your modem from their end.
#5 Location-based issues (poor signal and nearby Wi-Fi network interference)
Sometimes, the location of your router can be the reason why your internet keeps on disconnecting.
If you’re experiencing low Wi-Fi signal, you may be located at the very edge of your Wi-Fi network’s radius. If you’re mobile, just move closer to the router and your issue is fixed. But if your problem is because of where your home office/computer is located, find a way for the router to get closer to your location instead.
If your computer and router locations are properly situated and you’re still experiencing unstable internet connectivity, check the Wi-Fi networks or devices nearby. These may result in Wi-Fi interference every now and then. Fortunately, you just need to relocate your wireless router away from nearby routers and devices.
If you checked all these 5 issues and your internet continues to disconnect, you should call your ISP for assistance. If this happens regularly, make sure to check if your internet plan is still enough for your household’s internet consumption. If not, upgrade your plan. If your plan is enough for your internet use and you still face connectivity issues, it might be time to switch providers.
