Like most people, you likely depend on your Wi-Fi to keep your home or small business running smoothly. When you use multiple wireless devices that each requires a certain chunk of the bandwidth, however, internet speeds can slow considerably. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also hinder your workflow and productivity at the office and the efficient operation of your home. Here’s a look at why this slowdown occurs and what you can do to prevent it.

How Multiple Devices Use Bandwidth

Bandwidth is the measurement of the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted through an internet connection. Every smart device uses a certain amount of available bandwidth. When there are numerous devices connected to a Wi-Fi network, the excessive bandwidth required can sometimes slow down your internet connection. This is especially true if multiple devices are downloading data or transmitting large files at the same time.

The good news is that most home and office networks are equipped to handle heavy bandwidth demands, often up to 200 smart devices—in normal operating mode—at any given time. However, 20 or more devices constantly downloading or transmitting large files all at once can strain and slow your internet speeds, though they won't likely harm your Wi-Fi network.

How to Prevent Issues

The best way to prevent slowdowns is to be aware of how many smart devices are being used at a given time. Common devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart appliances generally don’t require a lot of bandwidth, so you're usually safe connecting them to the same Wi-Fi network.

Slowdowns tend to only become an issue with large, sophisticated devices, such as a whole-home smart security and entertainment system running off of a single Wi-Fi connection that is also accommodating multiple lower-bandwidth devices like smartphones and tablets. A solution is to install additional Wi-Fi connections in your home, such as an extra router.

In some cases, proximity to the router can cause slowdowns. If your router is located in a basement or upper floor, and most of the device usage happens on the main floor, an unsatisfactory connection is possible. Consider moving your router to a more central location, if possible.

Types of Devices With Large Bandwidth Demands

The devices that use the most bandwidth are those that stream video content, such as smart TVs, security cameras, and video doorbells. Because these devices are usually not all used at one time, they rarely pose a serious problem to internet speeds.

If they do produce a noticeable slowdown, try adjusting the settings to lower the screen resolution. The pictures won't be as crisp, but the devices won't require as much bandwidth, and speeds will be faster.

When you need reliable internet service, trust Horizon. For more than a century, they’ve been delivering telephone, cable, and internet services to homes and businesses in the Chillicothe, OH, area. They are a premium broadband service provider offering the highest levels of speed, reliability, and security. Call (740) 772-8200 or visit them online to sign up.