How to fix slow internet on Windows

A practical checklist for slow internet on a Windows PC: rule out Wi-Fi, background apps, VPNs and your provider, one safe step at a time.

Slow internet has many possible causes, so work through the checks in order and change one thing at a time. None of these steps require disabling antivirus or other security software.

1. Find out whether it is the whole network or one PC

Test another device on the same network. If every device is slow, the problem is the router, the line or your provider. If only one PC is slow, focus on that PC.

2. Restart the modem and router

Switch them off, wait about 30 seconds, and switch them back on. This clears many temporary faults.

3. Compare Wi-Fi with a cable

If you can, connect the PC to the router with an Ethernet cable and test again. A big difference points at Wi-Fi signal, distance or interference. See monitor Wi-Fi speed on Windows and Ethernet speed monitor.

4. Look for background transfers

Updates, game launchers, cloud backups and sync tools can use all of your bandwidth. Find them with which app is using your internet. A live readout makes a heavy background transfer obvious.

5. Check your VPN

A VPN adds overhead and routes traffic through another server, which can reduce speed. Disconnect it briefly and compare. See VPN network adapters explained.

6. Test properly

Close other apps, run a speed test, and repeat it at a different time of day. Note both download and upload speed. Remember that a speed test shows the best your connection can do, while real downloads are also limited by the server. See how to check network speed on Windows.

7. Update the network driver

An outdated or faulty network adapter driver can cause slowdowns and drops. Use Windows Update or your PC manufacturer’s support page to get the current driver.

8. Scan for malware

Use Windows Security to run a scan. Unwanted software can use your connection in the background.

9. Contact your provider

If the whole network is slow after these checks, contact your internet provider with your test results, the times you tested and whether you used Wi-Fi or a cable.

Using a live speed readout

Keeping download and upload speed visible while you test turns guesswork into evidence. You can see exactly when speed drops, which activity triggers it and whether it matches what your plan should deliver. Make sure the right adapter is selected first. See Windows network adapters explained.

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Published 2026-10-16