How can I improve my home internet speed?

The way your home is set up for internet, and the way you use it, can often affect your speed. Here are some things you can do to boost your connection.

Check the strength of your Wi-Fi signal

You can check the strength of your Wi-Fi network signal in My Telstra:
  1. Sign into My Telstra with your Telstra ID
  2. Go to Get help
  3. Select Internet and choose Test my connection or get help option

The strength of your Wi-Fi signal can be affected by where you place your modem. 

Think about:
  • Physical barriers like metal, wood, concrete walls or water – between the modem and your devices
  • Interference from other devices – like microwaves, cordless phones and baby monitors
  • The distance between the modem and your devices.

Multiple devices

Your broadband is shared between all the connected devices in your home. The number of devices and how much data each is using can also affect the speed of the service. 

To help find out what’s slowing down your Wi-Fi:
  • Switch off unnecessary or data-hungry devices that you’re not using 
  • Switch off each device one at a time and see if the connection speed increases noticeably. If it does, then check if that device is using a large amount of data or has any viruses.

For more information on nbn™ broadband speeds see nbn broadband speeds explained. 

Connection slow on one device only

If your connection is slow on one device only, it may be infected with malware or a virus. Or your device might be too old to support higher speeds. 

To find out if your device is slowing down your connection:

  • Use a different and/ or newer device to perform the same action – and see if your connection improves. If it does, get your original device checked for malware or viruses. If it’s old, consider retiring it. 

Old modem

The quality and age of your modem will affect your connection. 

You could upgrade to one of the latest Telstra-branded modems. We recommend using a Telstra Smart Modem to maximise broadband performance. Contact us if you need a new Telstra Smart Modem. 

Still not working?

If you’ve tried the steps above and you’re still having issues, here are a few more tips:

  • Faulty wiring can interrupt the connection and slow your speed. A qualified electrician or Telstra technician can check and fix your wiring. Contact us for technical support. 
  • If none of the above works, use our smart troubleshooting tools to help us diagnose and resolve any issues impacting your service.

Telstra Tech Support is unable to assist with non-Telstra modems and devices. We offer a Telstra Platinum service in person, and over the phone, that may be able to help with non-Telstra equipment and more advanced issues. Additional fees apply. 

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