A slow internet connection can interrupt streaming, gaming, and daily browsing. Whether you are using WiFi or Ethernet, speed problems can come from outdated drivers, network congestion, router issues, hardware faults, or ISP limitations.
This guide explains all possible causes and provides practical solutions. Before trying other methods, start with updating your network drivers because outdated or corrupted drivers are one of the most common reasons for slow internet.
Update Network Drivers First With Driver Sentry
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause slow internet, unstable WiFi, high latency, and frequent disconnection. Using Driver Sentry ensures that your WiFi and Ethernet drivers are correctly updated.
Download and Install:
Use a temporary internet connection (Ethernet or a mobile phone USB tether) if your PC is completely offline.
Download and install the Driver Sentry application onto your Windows PC.
Run Scan:
Launch Driver Sentry from the desktop or Start Menu, click the "Scan" button.
The software will perform a deep analysis of your system, focusing on network and core system components.
Execute Update:
The results will show you a list of all drivers that need attention. Select the necessary drivers and click the "Upgrade" or "Repair Now" button.
Driver Sentry will download the latest, certified versions specific to your WiFi adapter, crucial for reliable scanning and connection establishment.
Restart Your PC:
Allow the installation to complete and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Once updated, test your internet speed again to check if the issue is resolved.
Common Causes of Slow Internet and How to Fix Them
1. Weak WiFi Signal
If your signal strength is low, your speed will drop even if your internet plan is fast.
How to Fix:
Move your PC closer to the router.
Remove physical obstacles between your device and router.
Avoid using WiFi near large metal objects or thick walls.
Switch from the 2.4 GHz band to 5 GHz if your router supports it.
2. Router Overload or Firmware Problems
Routers working continuously for long periods can overheat or slow down.
How to Fix:
Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
Update the router firmware through the router admin page.
Reset router settings if performance remains poor.
Replace old routers that do not support modern WiFi standards.
3. Internet Service Provider (ISP) Issues
Sometimes the problem is not on your side.
How to Fix:
Run a speed test to compare actual speed with your plan.
Check if your ISP is experiencing outages.
Contact your ISP for line testing or to request a modem replacement.
4. Too Many Devices Sharing the Network
Your internet speed is divided among all connected devices.
How to Fix:
Disconnect unused devices from the network.
Limit bandwidth-heavy activities such as video streaming or cloud backups.
Use Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize your PC.
5. Background Apps Consuming Bandwidth
Applications such as cloud sync tools, Windows updates, and streaming services may slow down your connection.
How to Fix:
Open Task Manager and check Network usage.
Disable auto-updates for large applications.
Pause OneDrive, Google Drive, or other cloud sync tools if not needed.
6. VPN or Proxy Causing Speed Drop
VPNs often reduce internet speed, especially free ones.
How to Fix:
Turn off your VPN and test the connection.
Change the VPN server location.
Switch to a faster paid VPN service if needed.
7. Browser Issues
Old browser versions, too many extensions, or cached data may slow down web performance.
How to Fix:
Clear browser cache and cookies.
Disable unnecessary browser extensions.
Update your browser to the latest version.
8. Faulty Network Cable or Port
Damaged Ethernet cables can restrict speed.
How to Fix:
Replace the Ethernet cable with a Cat5e, Cat6, or higher.
Plug the cable into another router port.
Test with another computer to confirm if the cable is the issue.
9. Windows Network Configuration Problems
Corrupted TCP/IP settings can cause slow browsing.
How to Fix:
Run the following commands in Command Prompt as Administrator:
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /flushdns
Restart your PC afterward.
10. Malware or Unknown Background Activities
Malware-infected systems may have reduced speed due to hidden network usage.
How to Fix:
Run a full scan using Windows Security or a trusted antivirus.
Remove suspicious software from the Apps and Features list.
When to Consider Upgrading Your Hardware
If your router or network card is older than five years, upgrading to newer technology may significantly improve performance.
Modern routers support faster speed, lower latency, and better stability.
Final Thoughts
A slow internet connection can be caused by many factors, but updating your network drivers is one of the fastest and most effective solutions. After ensuring your drivers are updated using Driver Sentry, you can proceed with the additional troubleshooting steps listed above. By following this guide, most users can restore stable and faster internet performance.
