Upload speeds can be affected by a variety of factors, including hardware, software, and firmware. Older modem processors may be limiting your upload speeds, while unwanted software may be consuming resources and slowing down data transfers. Additionally, your Internet service itself could be the problem.
Here are ten steps you can take to help improve your upload speeds:
1. Get a faster internet connection
If you've been on the same plan for a while, you may be able to upgrade your Internet without spending more money. Sometimes it's as simple as calling your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and threatening to cancel - they may offer a new modem or upgrade your plan for free to keep you from leaving.
If they don’t budge, shop around for a better deal with another provider. If you're flexible about which ISP you use, take advantage of available promotions, but ensure that any service you choose offers good upload and download speeds—ideally, at least 20 Mbps for uploads and 100 Mbps for downloads for smooth and consistent internet.
2. Clear your cache and cookies
Cache and cookies accumulate as you browse the internet, and leaving them unchecked can result in a buildup of data that can take up significant disk space and may even impact performance. Clearing cookies can potentially make your computer faster and can also help to free up RAM.
What’s more, malware can exploit cache and cookies to carry attacks that can steal your data, which is another reason to practice good computer hygiene.
3. Using a wired connection
A wired Ethernet connection almost always improves Internet upload speeds - using a wired connection eliminates a lot of potential interference. A wired connection has a higher throughput than a Wi-Fi connection, which means more data can be sent per second.
It's a surefire way to increase both upload and download speeds. All you need to do is connect an Ethernet cable from your router to your computer.
4. Restart or reset your router
Rebooting or resetting the router can resolve upload speed issues by clearing temporary data and configurations that may interrupt your Internet connection. Power off and unplug the router for at least 30 seconds before rebooting.
5. Update your router’s firmware
Firmware is software that interacts directly with device hardware. Many modern routers update firmware automatically, but sometimes you need to apply new firmware updates manually to help your router work more efficiently.
6. Use a VPN
Your ISP can throttle your connection, possibly because they believe you’re consuming too much data or to regulate network traffic. By hiding your online activity from your ISP, VPNs can help prevent slow upload speeds resulting from bandwidth throttling.
7. Use security software
Using trusted antivirus software is important for your online security and can have positive knock-on effects on upload speeds. If your device becomes infected with malware it can consume bandwidth and interfere with your network, slowing down your internet speed.
8. Limit the number of devices and apps running simultaneously
Bandwidth-hungry apps can drain your internet connection and slow your upload speed. Additionally, the more devices connected to a single router, the slower your internet will run.
9. Move your router
Optimizing your router placement to improve the strength and stability of your connection can increase your internet upload speed. But if it’s not possible to move it because of the layout of your home, there are other ways to extend your Wi-Fi range like using a Wi-Fi extender.
10. Update your drivers
Outdated, incompatible or corrupted computer drivers can negatively affect your entire system. Similarly, updated network drivers can help improve your upload speeds if there are glitches or errors.
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