Broadband Troubleshooting: How To Fix Common Problems

We all know the feeling. You are in the middle of an important video call, or the middle of a binge-watch, and your internet cuts out. It can be very frustrating.

In 2020 the internet became more important to many of us than ever before. When you rely on your connection for work, socialising and entertainment, you need it not to go wrong.

However, it’s sometimes inevitable. That is why have put together this guide to help you figure out how to get back online quickly.

Home Broadband Troubleshooting

The first thing to find out is what is going wrong. Make sure that you are actually having a problem with your internet. Keep in mind your internet going slow does occasionally happen. Slowdowns can be the result of lots of people using the internet at once. They can also be caused by downloading large files while trying to do something else.

Pick up another internet-connected device and go to a random website or send yourself a test email.

If you’re still finding issues with your broadband, we have you covered.

1. Fixing technology 101: Restart your broadband modem.

In most cases, simply restarting your broadband router should fix any issues. It’s common to experience Internet Service Provider (ISP) issues from time to time. Restarting can help your router reconnect to the WiFi.

Wait at least 30 seconds before switching it back on. It may take a good few minutes to be up and running again. Be patient.  

2. Check your router connections.

If you are still experiencing some issues, make sure all wires are securely connected. If you see any loose wires, you have probably found your problem. You should restart your router after re-connected any wires.

3. Is your router in a central location in your home?

The signal may be dropping out for some devices if the router is not centrally located in your home. WiFi signals are weaker if your router is on the floor and blocked by large pieces of furniture and thick walls. Other electronic devices close to the router can also block signals.

If it is not possible to move your router to a more central location, you should consider investing in a WiFi range extender.

4. WiFi frequency and channels

This is a little more technical but can easily be changed within minutes.

Some home devices work better on different frequencies for several reasons. For example, there have been some reports of Virgin Broadband not connecting to some models of the Ring Doorbell Camera. A simple fix to this is to change the WiFi frequency. However, it may be that the current frequency is ‘too crowded’.

You can find out the frequency in the manual or on the back of your router. To change the frequency, you will need to open a browser on your computer or mobile phone and put your IP address (found on your router) in the search bar.

Type in your designated username and password. This is also found on the router. On this dashboard, you will be able to change the frequency of your WiFi under the wireless option.

Try your broadband connection again to see if this has improved.

5. Test your broadband speed.

Sometimes, it is as simple as you’re on the wrong broadband package. If your package speed is too low, you will have difficulty streaming some content. If slow buffering speeds are common when using streaming services, you will likely need to upgrade your broadband. You can compare the latest broadband deals here.

You can also check your internet connection speed with Broadband Speed Checker.  

Who is at fault for slow broadband speeds? 

It is often through no fault of your own that your broadband is not working properly. Common Virgin Media Broadband problems can include slow speeds and disconnections. Most of the time these aren’t things you can fix yourself.

Slowdowns can be caused by what’s known as a ‘capacity crunch’. This is when a company takes on too many customers in an area, without improving its capacity. As a result, there is essentially ‘not enough internet to go around’. This can cause slower speeds and even disconnections.

Internet connection problems can also be the result of geography.  How far your house is from your nearest telephone exchange affects the stability of your internet connection. If you are further away, your speed will likely be slower.

None of these issues is your fault – nor can you really fix them yourself. The best thing you can do is to contact your supplier for help.

Should I switch broadband providers?

If you have tried to fix your broadband problems, but nothing seems to work, it might be worth switching providers.

Different internet service providers can offer different speeds. One provider might have a better disconnection rate in your area than another. Finally, you might be paying more than you need to. Often, you will find out that you can get the same coverage or better for less money.

Switching providers isn’t difficult. If you are coming to the end of your contract, you can just allow it to run out. Even if you are in the middle of a contract, it is easier than ever to change to a new provider.

Next time you find yourself thinking ‘how can I fix my broadband this time’, check that you wouldn’t be better off switching.  Use Love Energy Savings’ to compare business broadband deals from a great range of reliable providers.

Related Articles