October 23rd, 2023 | Updated on November 4th, 2025
Two features found on nearly every electronic device can instantly enhance your home’s Wi-Fi network if you simply turn them off.
This process takes just a few seconds for each device, whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, PC, or gaming console.
In a report published in The Conversation last year, Senior Lecturer Omprakash Kaiwartya and Associate Professor Mufti Mahmud from Nottingham Trent University highlighted two lesser-known methods to enhance Wi-Fi speed.
These techniques are designed to reduce the competition for bandwidth on your router.
Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection within a specific timeframe. It’s shared by all internet users in a given area.
Naturally, you can achieve this by refraining from Zoom calls and Netflix streaming, which consume more Wi-Fi bandwidth than simply scrolling through social media in the evening.
However, this isn’t a practical solution for everyone all the time.
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Source: Amazon.com
Disable Automatic Updates
So, one alternative solution is to disable automatic updates on your devices, as suggested by Kaiwartya and Mahmud.
They advise, “When you require a stable internet connection, disable automatic software updates on your computer.
These updates can consume a significant portion of your internet speed in the background, resulting in a slower internet connection.” However, remember to update your devices as needed, as outdated software can also hinder your internet speed.
- If you need a stable internet connection, it’s essential to turn off automatic software updates on your computer.
- These updates can consume a significant portion of your internet speed in the background, resulting in a slower connection.
- However, remember to update your devices when necessary to ensure optimal performance, as outdated software can also hamper your internet speed.
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Disconnect Unused Devices
The second tip is to disconnect unused devices, such as old phones, laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles that are on their way out.
The duo recommends, “Disconnect internet-connected devices in your home, like your smart TV, from Wi-Fi if they are not actively in use.
This will enhance internet speed for active devices, such as your computer, while minimizing potential interference.”
- When not in active use, disconnect internet-connected devices in your home, like smart TVs.
- This action will boost internet speed for active devices, like your computer, while minimizing potential interference.
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Feature Image Source: Frederik Lipfert
