Why is my fibre broadband so slow? Causes and fixes

If you’re asking yourself, "Why is my fibre broadband so slow?" you’re not alone. Many fibre broadband users face slow speeds at some point and while fibre is known for its high-speed capabilities, various factors can cause performance to dip.

Common reasons for slow fibre broadband speeds

Understanding the root causes of slow fibre broadband speeds can help you troubleshoot effectively. Here are some of the most common reasons your broadband might be running slower than expected.

High network traffic during peak hours

One of the most common reasons for broadband slow speed is high network traffic during peak hours. Like a busy motorway during rush hour, your internet connection can become congested when too many people use the network simultaneously. In areas with many fibre broadband users, this can cause your internet speeds to drop, especially in the evenings when people are streaming videos, playing games, or working from home.

Outdated or incompatible equipment

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the broadband connection but with your equipment. Old or incompatible routers, modems, or cables can significantly slow down your connection. For example, using an outdated router that doesn’t support the latest Wi-Fi standards can limit your internet speed, even if your broadband plan offers faster speeds. To ensure your equipment is up to date, check your router’s specifications and consider upgrading it if it’s several years old.

Distance from the exchange or cabinet

Although fibre broadband is much faster than traditional broadband, the distance from the exchange or cabinet can still affect your connection speed. If you have FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), your connection is a mix of fibre and copper cables, the copper part of the connection can cause slower speeds the further you are from the exchange. This issue is less of a concern with FTTP (Fibre to the Premises), as it uses fibre all the way to your home.

If you’re far from the exchange, the signal may degrade, resulting in slower speeds. Unfortunately, you can’t do much about this except wait for further infrastructure upgrades in your area.

However, Hey! Broadband offers advice on the best plans for homes in areas with slower speeds.

How to diagnose slow fibre broadband

Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to diagnose the issue correctly. Here’s how you can start diagnosing your slow fibre broadband:

Running a broadband speed test

The first step in diagnosing slow speeds is running a broadband speed test. Many free tools are available online to help you measure your download and upload speeds.

Compare the results with the speeds promised by your broadband plan. If your actual speed is far below the advertised speed, it may indicate a problem with your connection.

Speed tests can also help you identify if the issue is specific to one device or affecting all your devices. For example, if one device is slow, but others are working fine, the issue might be with that specific device.

Checking your router settings

Many routers have settings that can affect performance. Check if your router is configured to use the best available channels and frequencies. For example, if you’re on a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection, it can be more congested and slower, especially if you live in a crowded area with many Wi-Fi networks. Switching to 5 GHz can improve speed and reliability.

Also, make sure there are no restrictions, such as bandwidth limits, set in the router settings that might slow down your connection.

Identifying interference or signal issues

Wi-Fi signals can be disrupted by various factors, such as physical obstructions (walls, floors, or furniture), electrical interference (from devices like microwaves or cordless phones), or even network congestion.

To test for interference, try moving your router to a more central location in your home and away from sources of interference. Consider using Wi-Fi extenders or mesh Wi-Fi systems to improve coverage.

Solutions to improve fibre broadband speed

Now that you’ve diagnosed the potential causes of slow speeds, let’s explore some effective solutions:

Upgrading your broadband plan

If your fibre broadband plan offers lower speeds than you need, upgrading to a faster plan can resolve slow speeds, improving your browsing, streaming and gaming experience. Hey! Broadband offers a variety of plans tailored to different usage levels.

Optimising router placement

The placement of your router plays a huge role in how well your Wi-Fi signal performs. To get the best possible coverage, place your router in a central location in your home, preferably off the floor and away from walls. Avoid placing it near large metal objects, as these can interfere with the signal. Additionally, ensure the router isn’t surrounded by thick walls that might block the signal.

Switching to a mesh Wi-Fi system

If you have a large home or experience Wi-Fi dead zones, switching to a Mesh Wi-Fi system could improve your speeds. Unlike traditional routers, Mesh systems use multiple units placed around your home to extend coverage and create a seamless network.

When to contact your internet service provider

If you've tried all of the above steps and are still experiencing slow broadband speeds, it might be time to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Your ISP can run diagnostics on your connection and check for any issues with the line, signalor infrastructure.

Sometimes, slow speeds are due to network congestion on the provider’s end or a technical fault in their equipment. If the issue persists, your ISP should provide solutions or inform you when repairs are scheduled.

If you’re ready to explore your options and find the perfect broadband deal for your needs, check out our range of packages or call us at 0330 822 2878. Our friendly customer service team is here to help make your switch to Hey! Broadband a swift and stress-free experience!