Steps to take to check your speeds

If your broadband feels slow, follow these steps to help identify the issue and possibly fix it yourself.

• Restart your router: Turn off your YouFibre router and wait for 60 seconds. Then, turn it back on and wait a few minutes for the lights to settle.

• Check all cables: Make sure the fibre cable from outside is securely connected to your fibre box (ONT) mounted on the wall. Also check that the cable between your fibre box and router is firmly connected at both ends.

• Run a proper speed test: Use the speed checker by Ookla - https://www.speedtest.net for accurate results. Make sure you select the YouFibre speedtest server, before proceeding. If the server is not on YouFibre, select “Change Server” and search YouFibre, select the server closest to you, then tap GO.

• Disconnect your device and rerun speed test: Once you've run the first test, disconnect all your other devices and run it again on just the one device you're testing.

What your results mean

• If only Wi-Fi is slow: This usually indicates coverage problems in your home. Consider the location of your router, it must be in a centralised part of your home or you may need to get a YouFibre mesh booster to extend connection around your home.

• If one website is slow: The issue is likely with that specific website, not your broadband connection.

• If all devices are affected: This suggests a broader connection issue that we can help resolve. Contact us if all your devices are experiencing slow speeds.

What speed can I expect

What could be affecting your speed?

Your speed depends on your device and how it's connected. A device on Wi-Fi will typically be slower than one on Ethernet cable. Your device's Wi-Fi standard also affects what speed it can realistically reach, whatever your package.

When using Wi-Fi, your speed also depends on which radio band your device connects on, and which bands your router supports, our faster packages come with routers that support quicker bands.

Understanding Wi-Fi bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz

Your router sends Wi-Fi over different radio bands. Think of them as lanes on a road, some go further, some are faster, and some are less busy.

• 2.4GHz: travels furthest and passes through walls most easily, but it's the slowest and busiest band, shared with neighbours' Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even microwaves. Best for smart home devices and rooms far from the router.

• 5GHz: is faster than 2.4GHz and less crowded, though the signal doesn't travel quite as far. Best for streaming, gaming, and everyday use.

• 6GHz: is the fastest and least congested band, but the shortest range, and only newer Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 devices can use it. Best for getting the most out of very fast broadband on newer devices close to the router.

You usually don't need to choose, most routers automatically connect each device to the best available band based on where it is and what it supports.

You can check your device's Wi-Fi standard in its settings or specifications if you're not sure which one it uses.

Other things that can affect your speed

Distance from your router matters too, as does interference from walls, appliances, and other connected devices. Router position affects this as well, give it space, keep it out of a cupboard or behind the TV, and position it centrally in the room for the most even signal.

Tried all of this and still not getting your package's guaranteed speed on a wired connection? The quickest way to reach us is through the YouFibre app, log in and message us there and we'll take a look. You can also call us on 0330 822 2222 or email hello@youfibre.com.