How to make your broadband go faster

There are things you can do to improve your broadband speed. This might be useful if you are waiting for a faster connection. You can:

• place your router on a table or shelf without any other objects blocking it
• connect your device with an ethernet cable rather than using Wi-Fi
• check if any electrical devices are interfering with your signal, such as a microwave
• try using a wireless booster to improve your signal
• disconnect other devices from Wi-Fi that you're not using
• declutter your computer and check it's up-to-date
• check if your router firmware needs updating

Checking your broadband speed

You can ask your internet service provider about your broadband speed. You can also test your connection speed at Ofcom’s website.

Broadband comparison sites

Details of price comparison sites that have been accredited by Ofcom are available online. Upgrades to broadband speeds are not automatic. You will have to contact your Internet Service Provider to do this.

Alternative solutions

You might be able to get a faster connection with the Universal Service Obligation for broadband.

The Universal Service Obligation was launched by Ofcom in 2020. It gives everyone in the UK a legal right to request a broadband connection of at least 10 Megabits per second. BT is the Universal Service Provider for Scotland. Further information about applying for a connection is available on their website.