Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://www.highspeedoptions.com/resources/insights/slow-internet-at-night

 

No one likes slow internet at any time of the day. Yet, something about slow internet at night brings about a whole new level of frustration.

We break down the main cause of slow internet at night and what you can do to remedy it. However, if the solutions below don’t help increase your speed, it might be time to call your internet service provider for an upgrade.

Problem: Slow Internet at Night

 

On nights when you want to keep things simple and stay in, a lot can still go wrong. There may be no-shows to your movie marathon. The pizza delivery guy might run late. You may even forget your Disney+ password. Yet, none of these come close to ruining a good night quite like slow internet does.

If you’ve ever noticed your internet slow down in the evening, this isn’t a coincidence at all. It’s a problem all internet subscribers experience at one point or another – if not daily.

Cause: Network Congestion

 

The main cause of slow internet at night is network congestion. This is when a majority of internet users are online at the same time, which can overload a provider’s network.

Network congestion is also referred to as internet rush hour, primetime, or “peak hours,” and typically lasts between 7 – 11 PM when most people get off work or school, host events, or kick back on the weekend.

The problem with this is that each internet network has a finite amount of bandwidth it can support. When too many people try to access the internet at the same time, it almost always results in reduced speeds or poor latency.

Sometimes, providers will attempt to mitigate network congestion by throttling internet speeds, placing data caps on plans, or temporarily disconnecting sections of their network. If this is the case for you, consider trying one of our recommendations below to help boost your internet speed.

If none of these solutions resolve your issue, it may be time to upgrade your internet plan altogether.

Solutions: How to Fix Slow Internet at Night

 

Unfortunately, you can’t control how many people attempt to use the internet when you do. However, you can use these tips to help boost your internet connection when it counts the most.

1. Disconnect devices not in use.

As you connect more devices to your network, you run the risk of using up all your subscribed bandwidth and overloading your internet equipment. Try disconnecting unused devices to maximize your internet performance.

2. Reconsider your equipment location.

Similar to a lamp, a modem and router both need space of their own to perform at their best. So, try placing your equipment in the center of your home or on the highest level or furniture perch available.

3. Create a password for your home network.

Without a password, anyone near your home can access your internet, which leaves you vulnerable to cyber attacks, malware, and neighborhood moochers using up your bandwidth. Instead, protect the speeds you pay for with a secure password.

4. Invest in WiFi extenders.

Sometimes, it’s not your provider slowing your speeds down. Instead, it may be your home layout. Using WiFi extenders helps eliminate dead spots and extend your WiFi reach throughout your home.

5. Upgrade your internet service.

When all else fails, it may be time to listen to your lifestyle needs. Upgrade your internet plan to include more bandwidth or unlimited data to support your online activities.

Providers with Unlimited Data

Some providers offer internet plans with unlimited data, so you don’t have to worry about poor service when the sun goes down.

The best among them include Xfinity, Frontier, and Windstream who pack additional features into their plans like no annual contracts, fast gigabit speeds, and wide availability.

 

Shop Top Internet Providers

We partner with top internet providers to bring you the best deals. Enter your zip code to explore availability near you.

Slow Internet FAQs

Why is my internet slow at night?

 

There are a number of reasons for slow internet, however, the most common are network congestion, home layout, and data caps. This is especially true at night time when people typically wind down for the day and access the internet at the same time.

Ask your provider what options are available to boost your internet speed or consider trying a few quick solutions listed above to see if that resolves your poor connection.

Why do internet providers throttle speed?

There are two main reasons why internet providers throttle speeds.

First, speed throttling is used to help mitigate network congestion and ensure all subscribers are able to access the internet during peak hours of use.

Second, speed throttling is used when a subscriber exceeds their monthly data cap. Rather than completely disconnect someone’s service, an ISP will attempt to throttle speed and therefore data usage until the customer’s next billing cycle.

Do VPNs slow down your internet?

 

In most cases, VPNs slow down internet. However, if you invest in a premium VPN that hides your IP from internet service providers or hackers, you can avoid speed throttling, which in turn ends up improving your internet performance.

Besides network congestion, what else slows down internet?

Reasons for slow internet vary from household to household. Yet, common causes for poor internet include too many devices connected at once, equipment placement, and home layout. Explore our Resources Center to learn more about what slows down internet.