Martin Lewis shares simple Wi-Fi test that proves how bad your broadband is

17 January 2024 , 08:13

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Martin Lewis shares simple Wi-Fi test that proves how bad your broadband is

If you're paying mega money each month for superfast downloads but feel like your streaming is starting to stutter then it might be worth checking out the latest advice from Martin Lewis. The money-saving expert offered the top Wi-Fi tip during his popular Money Live ITV show this week and it will only take you a few minutes.

"When it comes to your broadband, if you're not getting the speeds you want you have to check whether it's what's coming into your house that isn't fast enough or if it's your Wi-Fi box that's transmitting around your house that isn't fast enough," Lewis explained.

He then went on to tell viewers how to check if things aren't up to scratch from the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or if it's poor positioning of the router that's grinding things to a halt.

"Do a speed test on your computer or phone, see what the speed is using Wi-Fi. Then, if you've got something you can plug the cable into from your router, do a speed test on that.

"If that's substantially faster, it's your Wi-Fi box, not the cable coming into house that's wrong."

Sky TV and broadband customers given urgent warning about price hike in bills

BEST SPEED TESTING APPS • Ookla offers a free app and speed tests via the web, you can also check downloads via Google.

If you perform this test (you'll need a laptop and an Ethernet cable) and things are working better via that wired connection then Lewis also revealed some top tips for improving the Wi-Fi.

"Place your Wi-Fi box high, don't put it in a cupboard - that's blocking the signal - and don't have any obstacles near it. All of that could help."

These top tips are definitely worth trying as making some simple changes can boost speeds, you might also find that your ISP isn't giving you what you deserve.

Now is also a good time to check your plan and see what better deals there are on the market. The Consumer Price Index has just been confirmed at 4% with many Internet Service Providers using this to set their hikes for the year ahead.

Some bills could rise by around 7% from April and if you're not happy paying more, do some research, try and secure a better deal or move supplier. It could save you money.

Dave Snelling