When your Internet is slow, it can be very aggravating. Fortunately, there is always a reason why this is happening. Below are four things that may be causing this slowness so you can take steps to speed everything back up again.

Check what your Internet speed should be

The first thing you should do is to check the contract from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to see what kind of plan you have, which determines what your Internet speed is supposed to be. Once you find this information, there are websites that allow you to run an Internet speed test to compare the results with what your ISP says you have. The numbers that come up should be the same numbers your ISP gave you. If they are the same, then you may want to upgrade your plan to a higher speed. If they are not the same, then you have a problem on your end.

Check for problems with your Wi-Fi signal

If you use Wi-Fi, you may be having a problem with your wireless signal, which can cause a slow Internet speed. Your router should be out in the open and not hidden away behind a cabinet. Make sure it is free from any kind of obstructions or walls. The antennas should be sticking straight up and not at an angle. Appliances, such as microwaves, and cordless phones can mess with your signal. Move the router as far away from these things as you can.

Check what type of connection you have

There are three different ways to connect to the Internet: Cable, DSL, and dial-up. Dial-up is not common today as only 3% of Americans still use it. Many people use copper wiring in their homes to connect to the Internet. Fiber Optic Service (FiOS) is offered by some Internet providers and is much faster. If you are using copper, ask your ISP if they offer FiOS. If you are not sure what type you currently have, your ISP can tell you this information. You should understand that not all areas have FiOS available to them.

Check your computer for spyware

Spyware can slow down your Interent. Spyware is installed on your computer without your knowledge. It works by collecting information about the websites you visit, and then gives this information to an advertising company. All of this going on takes up bandwidth which results in a slow Interent speed.

Download an antispyware application. Many of them are completely free. Once downloaded, update the software, and then run a full scan. When the scan is finished, a list of the spyware found will be listed giving you the option of deleting them. How this works depends on the type of software you install.