Why is my Wi-Fi connection so slow even though I’m near the router?
A slow Wi-Fi connection can stem from signal interference, router settings, or too many devices on the network.
When your Wi-Fi is slow despite being close to the router, multiple factors could be at play. First, check if there are too many devices on the network, as this can congest bandwidth and slow speeds. Signal interference from appliances or electronic devices, like microwaves and Bluetooth gadgets, can also degrade performance. Log into your router’s settings to verify if Quality of Service (QoS) is enabled, which lets you prioritize bandwidth to specific devices. Additionally, if your router is operating on the 2.4 GHz band, switching to the 5 GHz band may reduce interference from nearby Wi-Fi networks and improve speed. Finally, test the speed directly at your router by plugging in an Ethernet cable; if the speed improves, then the issue may be Wi-Fi-specific. Regularly updating your router’s firmware also helps enhance performance. If all else fails, consider upgrading to a newer router with better bandwidth handling and coverage.