Most “my internet is slow” complaints are really Wi-Fi problems. South African homes are tough on Wi-Fi: brick and concrete walls, long single-storey layouts and routers tucked away where the fibre installer left them. These fixes are in order — start at the top.
First: confirm it’s the Wi-Fi
Run a speed test next to the router, then again in the room where you have problems. If the first result is fast and the second is slow, your line is fine and the Wi-Fi needs attention. If both are slow, see our diagnosis tool instead.
1. Move the router to a better spot
Wi-Fi spreads out from the router like light from a bulb. Put it somewhere central, raised (on a shelf, not the floor), and out in the open. Avoid cupboards, TV cabinets, behind metal objects, and near fish tanks — water absorbs Wi-Fi.
2. Restart the router
Switch it off at the wall for 30 seconds. Routers that have been on for months can slow down. If you have to restart often, the router may be overheating or failing.
3. Use 5 GHz when you’re close, 2.4 GHz when you’re far
Most routers broadcast two bands. 5 GHz is much faster but has a shorter range and struggles through walls. 2.4 GHz reaches further but is slower and more crowded. Connect to 5 GHz in the same room or next door; use 2.4 GHz at the far end of the house. Some routers combine both under one name and choose for you.
4. Point the antennas correctly
If your router has external antennas, set one vertical and one horizontal. Phones and laptops have antennas at different angles, and this covers both.
5. Change the Wi-Fi channel
In complexes and flats, dozens of neighbouring networks compete on the same channels. Log in to your router (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and try channels 1, 6 or 11 on 2.4 GHz, or let the router pick automatically after a restart.
6. Keep the microwave and cordless phones away
Microwave ovens and some older cordless phones and baby monitors interfere with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If the Wi-Fi drops when the microwave is on, that’s why.
7. Update the router’s firmware
Updates fix bugs and improve performance. Many provider-supplied routers update automatically; for others, check the admin page or the manufacturer’s app.
8. Kick off devices you don’t use
Old phones, smart plugs and visitors’ devices all chat to the router. Change your Wi-Fi password if you suspect neighbours are using it — and use WPA2 or WPA3 security.
9. Plug in the things that don’t move
Smart TVs, gaming consoles and desktop PCs work better on a network cable. Every device you move off Wi-Fi frees up capacity for the phones and laptops that need it.
10. Use mesh Wi-Fi for bigger homes
A mesh system uses two or three units that work together as one network. It’s the best fix for long houses, double-storeys and homes with thick walls. Place the second unit halfway between the router and the dead zone — not inside the dead zone.
11. Avoid cheap single-band extenders
Basic plug-in extenders often halve your speed because they receive and resend on the same channel. If you must use one, choose a dual-band model, or better, a mesh system or wired access point.
12. Run a cable to a second access point
For outbuildings, garden cottages or far bedrooms, a network cable to a second access point gives the best results. Powerline adapters (internet over your electrical wiring) can work, but results vary with the age and layout of your wiring.
Still slow? If you’ve tried these and speeds are still poor even close to the router, the problem may be the router itself or your line. Run a diagnosis and contact your provider with the report.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Wi-Fi fast on my phone but slow on my laptop?
Older laptops may only support older Wi-Fi standards or 2.4 GHz. Update the Wi-Fi driver, connect to 5 GHz, or use a USB Wi-Fi adapter or network cable.
Does a more expensive router help?
A newer router (Wi-Fi 6 or later) helps when many devices are connected, but placement and walls matter more. For big homes, mesh beats a single powerful router.
Not sure what’s wrong?
Our free diagnosis finds the cause and gives you a fix list.