Device check / WiFi Troubleshooting

Slow Wi-Fi on a Laptop: Do’s and Don’ts

If your laptop's Wi-Fi is slow, try checking other devices on the same network to see if the issue is device-specific.

Prepared for Byte Sherlock — Sayan "Sherlock" Roy Chowdhury, engineer

What to do

1. DO

   Do check if other devices on the same network have the same slow Wi-Fi issue

   To isolate the fault

   Helps determine if it's a device or network issue

2. DO

   Do move your laptop closer to the router to see if the Wi-Fi speed improves

   To check for physical obstructions

   Can indicate if signal strength is the problem

3. DO

   Do note whether the Wi-Fi connection drops or if it's just the internet speed that's slow

   To identify the type of issue

   Helps in pinpointing the cause

4. DO

   Do compare your laptop's Wi-Fi speed with another device on the same network

   To compare performance

   Can help identify device-specific issues

5. DO

   Do save your router's settings before making any changes

   To prevent loss of custom settings

   Prevents potential data loss

What not to do

1. DON’T

   Don't buy a new router without isolating the fault

   To avoid unnecessary expenses

   Save money by diagnosing first

2. DON’T

   Don't reset your router without saving its current settings

   To prevent loss of custom settings

   Prevents potential data loss

3. DON’T

   Don't post your Wi-Fi password in a public chat

   To maintain network security

   Protects your network from unauthorized access

4. DON’T

   Don't assume the issue is with your laptop without checking other devices

   To ensure thorough diagnosis

   Helps in accurate troubleshooting