WiFi vs Wired Speed Test
Internet problems typically fall into a few categories that can be systematically diagnosed. By working through potential causes in a logical order, you can often identify and resolve issues without waiting for a technician visit. Even when professional help is needed, providing diagnostic information speeds up resolution.
Start with the simplest check: restart your router and ONT or modem. Power cycle both devices by unplugging them for 30 seconds, then plugging the modem or ONT back in first and waiting two minutes before powering on the router. This resolves a surprising number of intermittent connectivity issues caused by software glitches or memory leaks in the equipment.
If a restart does not help, determine whether the problem is your internet connection or your WiFi network. Connect a device directly to your router with an Ethernet cable and run a speed test. If wired speeds match your plan but WiFi is slow, the problem is your wireless network, not your internet service. If wired speeds are also low, the issue is with your internet connection or your ISP's network.
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Slow speeds at certain times of day but normal speeds at others typically indicate congestion, either on your ISP's network or on your home WiFi from multiple devices. On cable connections, peak-hour slowdowns are common and may require an ISP upgrade or technology switch. On fiber, this pattern more often points to WiFi congestion in your home.
Intermittent disconnections can stem from several causes. A failing router or modem is a common culprit, especially for equipment more than three to four years old. Loose cable connections cause intermittent signal loss. Environmental factors like heat can cause equipment to throttle or shut down temporarily.
Slow speeds on specific devices but not others usually indicate a device-level issue. Check that the device's WiFi adapter supports modern standards, that it is within reasonable range of the router, and that its network drivers are updated. Older devices with WiFi 4 or earlier adapters cannot achieve speeds that WiFi 5 or 6 adapters can.
When to Call Your ISP
Contact your ISP when wired speed tests consistently show speeds well below your plan, when outages occur frequently, or when the issue persists after replacing your own equipment. Provide your ISP with speed test results, dates and times of issues, and what troubleshooting you have already attempted.
**Run a diagnostic speed test** with [FiberFinder's testing tool](/speed-test) and document your results before contacting your ISP. If your technology is the bottleneck, [check fiber availability](/availability) as a potential upgrade path.