Internet speeds can be impacted by the total number of people in a given area using the Internet at the same time. If you notice your Internet speeds are faster during the day, it is likely due to decreased demand when many users are away from home. In the evening hours, when more people are online in residential areas, that speed can experience decreases as everyone within the same coverage area competes for the same service.
 

If you have an outdated modem or router that doesn’t support the high speed provided by your ISP, it can impact your ability to realize those speeds. If you have an updated router but are still experiencing issues, consider the placement of the router. You’ll want to keep your router in a clear space where signals won’t be blocked by thick walls or other devices, including radios or microwaves. Competing signals can also travel along the floor, so it’s important to keep your router elevated and open. If you have an updated, long-range router placed in an elevated, open space and are still experiencing issues, consider switching to a different WiFi channel.
 

If your device is running several applications simultaneously, it is natural for the speed to be compromised as they compete for the total available bandwidth. If your Internet speed is experiencing lag, ensure you aren’t running any apps, add-ons, or toolbar tools that you aren’t actively using, closing or toggling off those you aren’t using at a given time. On mobile phones especially, it is important to consider which apps may be running in the background even when they aren’t being actively used. Additionally, speed can be affected by the type of connection, with an Ethernet connection providing more speed and stability than WiFi, for example. The hardware capabilities of your device can also impact speed, with considerations including weak processors. Even with a high speed ISP and updated modem and router, outdated devices may not be capable of delivering the full Internet speed potential your package offers.