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The switch from dial-up to broadband is an amazing leap for most computer users, but as newer web pages and services like iPlayer and iTunes demand more and more speed from our broadband connections, it can seem like you’re just not moving fast enough. If you’re lucky enough to be coming towards the end of your contract, it’s worth checking out cheap broadband deals to see if you can find a faster provider. If you’re stuck on with your ISP for now, there are still a few things you can do to sort out your connection.
Cleaning your Cache
Web Browsers like to save pictures and information about websites that you visit on your own hard drive. This is called the ‘cache’ which Windows users might know as ‘Temporary Internet Files’. In the short term this tends to help web pages load faster as you already have some of the information sitting on your hard drive. However, over a long period the cache can build up with images and information that is no longer used, so cleaning it every now and again is a very good idea.
Using IE 8, navigate to Tools > Internet Options > General, and click on the Delete button. There are plenty of options for things to delete, but for now just click Temporary Internet Files. IE8 also allows you to keep images that you are still using often, so it’s the best of both worlds!
Firefox 3 works in much the same way, though it refers to the cache and all other similar settings as ‘private data’. Navigate to Tools > Clear Private Data. Make sure ‘Cache’ is selected then click ‘Clear Private Data Now’.
Checking for Spyware
Even the most careful of PC users is bound to find at least a few pieces of Adware have been installed on their system. For people who don’t take any precautions against it, spyware can be a major cause of slowdown both eating into system memory and broadband speed. Using a free spyware removal tool is the quickest and easiest way to remove these programs and speed up your computer. There are plenty to choose from and many of the best are totally free.
After running a scan, you’ll see a screen like this. Be careful to review everything and make sure the program hasn’t detected something as Spyware when it’s actually a legitimate program. You’ll probably find between 50 and 3,000 objects on your computer and the more you have, the bigger the increase in computer speed will be when you’ve deleted them. If you find Spyware is a constant issue on your machine, considering purchasing a program that will scan for Spyware in real time and remove it as it’s installed.
Keep an Eye on Your Software
Keeping your Software up to date is very important. Windows updates can help fix errors and issues, but updating your browser can make sure that you are using not only the safest method of browsing the web but also the fastest. Many older browsers including IE6, which comes bundled with older copies of Windows XP actually run slower than their newer versions due to the way they load webpages.
Browser add-ons can also increase your speed by loading up links in the background while you are reading the page you are on, decreasing the time it takes to load when you do click on them.
Don’t forget that other programs you may have downloaded might also be taking up bandwidth in the background. Antivirus software, Windows Update and many other programs will all use your connection to download new updates automatically, often without asking. You can use the settings of these programs to change when they download to a time when you won’t be using the net. It’s not recommended that you turn them off completely. Other programs like TV streaming services might not always quit when you close them, so check your system tray and make sure you know what’s running and what isn’t.
Be Aware of Wireless Network Capabilities
Sometimes it’s not actually your net connection that’s slow but your own Wireless network. Upgrading to a faster router is one option, but also consider placing your router or computer in a different position to make sure you get the best signal strength available. Make sure you position your router away from metal objects and walls. Wireless will also travel further if the router is above ground level.
Make sure you’ve set your security settings on your wireless as well. Use WPA or WPA2 where possible. A sudden, dramatic drop in internet speed could well indicate that a neighbour is stealing your connection!
Upgrade Your Broadband Connection or Hardware!
There’s only so much common sense and system tweaking will do. Sometimes, it’s just your connection that’s too slow. Run a speed test and make sure you are getting the speed you’ve been advertised, but be aware that when ISPs advertise speeds of ‘up to 8mbs’, that’s an upper limit, not the speed you should expect all the time.
Find out if you’ve got the best connection you can possibly get in your area, you can find broadband availability checkers online to help you with this. Consider switching ISPs or moving from ADSL to Cable if the service is available in your area, but remember that you’ll normally have to wait until your contract has finished before this is possible.
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