No one likes dealing with sluggish Internet. If you continue to upgrade your bandwidth, or the maximum data transfer rate of an Internet connection, and don’t get faster speeds, you may need to look at a few key factors. Understanding what influences bandwidth ensures you can optimize your Internet service and prevent overload.

What Influences Bandwidth?

1. Number of Users and Devices

If you live in a large household or work in a big office, you’ll need to determine the bandwidth speed based on how many people use the Internet at once and how many devices will be active. Each person using the Internet is either downloading or uploading data in some form. The more people do this, the more the bandwidth becomes overloaded. On average, consider that a 4-person household may be using around 19.00 Mbps at any given time.

2. Background Devices

Just because you aren’t currently on a tablet, computer, or smart TV doesn't mean that the Internet still isn’t being used. A number of other devices in the background are often connected. These include home security systems, smart thermostats, doorbell cameras, or smartphones. Even when seemingly inactive, they’re still taking up bandwidth. If there are must-have items like these in your home, consider asking your Internet service provider for a higher bandwidth to accommodate.

3. Location to the Router

The router that transmits the WiFi signal throughout the home also plays a role in bandwidth. Its various protocols have different maximum bandwidths. Because of this, the closer you are to the router, the higher your bandwidth maximum will be. If the router is in a central location, such as the living room, where a lot of people use the Internet, you’re ensuring you get the highest bandwidth allotment from your Internet service.

The team at TSC knows how important Internet service is which is why they’ve been dedicated to providing customers with reliable telecom services since 1921. From Internet access to cable and web hosting, they ensure clients throughout Wapakoneta and St. Mary’s, OH, have all the resources they need for their homes and businesses. You can explore all their services and bundles online or call (419) 739-2200 to speak with a representative.