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How to Fix Slow WiFi Speeds on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Slow WiFi speeds on your Windows 11 device can be frustrating, especially when you need a reliable connection for work or entertainment. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to improve your internet speed. These steps are easy to follow and don’t require advanced technical knowledge.

This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix slow WiFi speeds by addressing common issues. We’ll start with basic checks and then move on to more detailed solutions.

By following these instructions carefully, you can enjoy faster browsing, smoother streaming, and better overall connectivity on your Windows 11 PC.

Let’s begin with some quick notes before diving into the step-by-step solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check your internet plan: Make sure your internet subscription supports the speeds you expect.
  • Restart your router and PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot can fix temporary glitches slowing down your WiFi.
  • Verify your connection: Confirm that your device is connected to the correct WiFi network and not using mobile data.
  • Check for physical obstructions: Walls or electronic devices can weaken your WiFi signal.

Step 1: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in network troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common network issues. This is the simplest way to start diagnosing your slow WiFi.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet in the sidebar.
  3. Select Advanced network settings at the bottom.
  4. Click on Network troubleshooter under the “More settings” section.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows identify and fix issues.

This tool can fix problems like incorrect IP settings or DNS issues that often cause slow speeds.

Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to Your WiFi Network

Sometimes, your device might have saved incorrect network settings. Forgetting the network and reconnecting can refresh your connection.

  1. Open Settings and navigate to Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
  2. Click on Manage known networks.
  3. Find your WiFi network and click Forget.
  4. Go back to the WiFi list, select your network, and enter the password to reconnect.

This step ensures your PC gets a fresh connection with updated settings.

Step 3: Update Your Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can severely affect WiFi performance. Updating your network adapter driver ensures compatibility and better speed.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click on your WiFi adapter (usually contains “Wireless” or “Wi-Fi”) and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows find the latest version.
  5. If no update is found, visit your PC manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.

Keeping drivers updated improves performance and fixes bugs related to connectivity.

Step 4: Change Your DNS Server Settings

Sometimes, slow internet is due to your DNS server. Switching to a faster, more reliable DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare can improve speed.

  1. Open Settings, then go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
  2. Click on More network adapter options.
  3. Right-click your active WiFi adapter and select Properties.
  4. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
  6. Enter these values:
    Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
    Or use Cloudflare:
    Preferred DNS server: 1.1.1.1
    Alternate DNS server: 1.0.0.1
  7. Click OK and close all windows.

This change can speed up how quickly websites load by improving DNS resolution times.

Step 5: Disable Background Apps and Limit Bandwidth Usage

Apps running in the background can consume your internet bandwidth, causing slower WiFi speeds.

  1. Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Identify apps that might be using internet heavily (e.g., cloud storage sync, updates).
  3. Click the three dots next to the app and select Advanced options.
  4. Under Background apps permissions, select Never or Power optimized.
  5. Also, open Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage to monitor and limit app bandwidth.

Reducing background data usage frees up bandwidth for your active tasks.

Step 6: Adjust Power Management Settings for Your WiFi Adapter

Windows may reduce WiFi adapter power to save energy, which can affect speed. Disabling this can improve performance.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter, and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Power Management tab.
  4. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
  5. Click OK to save changes.

This stops Windows from reducing your WiFi power, ensuring stable and faster connectivity.

Step 7: Reset Network Settings

If previous steps did not help, resetting network settings will restore all network configurations to default. This can fix deeper issues.

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
  2. Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Under More settings, click Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart, and all network adapters and settings will be reset.

Note: You will need to reconnect to your WiFi network and re-enter passwords after this.

Advanced Option: Use Command Prompt to Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP

If you are comfortable with commands, these actions can also resolve network issues and improve speed.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset

These commands clear DNS cache, reset TCP/IP stack, and reset Winsock catalog, which may fix corrupted network settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my WiFi slow even though I have a fast internet plan?

Many factors affect WiFi speed including signal strength, interference, outdated drivers, and background apps consuming bandwidth. Your device’s WiFi hardware and distance from the router also matter.

How far should I be from my router for good WiFi speed?

Ideally, stay within 30 feet with minimal walls or obstacles. Thick walls, metal objects, and other electronics can reduce signal strength.

Can other devices connected to the same WiFi slow down my PC?

Yes. Multiple devices sharing bandwidth can cause congestion and reduce speed on each device.

Is it better to use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi?

5 GHz generally offers faster speeds but shorter range. 2.4 GHz covers longer distances but is slower and more prone to interference.

Should I upgrade my router for better WiFi speed?

If your router is old or doesn’t support newer WiFi standards (like WiFi 5 or WiFi 6), upgrading can significantly improve speed and stability.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps improve your WiFi speed, consider the following:

  • Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP): There might be issues or outages in your area.
  • Check your router’s firmware: Visit the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates and instructions.
  • Try using an Ethernet cable: This can help determine if the problem is with WiFi or the internet connection itself.
  • Windows Support: Visit the official Microsoft Windows Support for more help and troubleshooting tools.

Conclusion

Slow WiFi speeds on Windows 11 can usually be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting from running the network troubleshooter to updating drivers and resetting network settings covers most issues. It is important to understand why each step helps so you can apply the right fix confidently.

Regularly maintaining your device and network settings can prevent future slowdowns. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional support or upgrade your hardware. With these steps, you’re well equipped to enjoy faster, more reliable WiFi on your Windows 11 PC.

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