HOUSEHOLDS are just realising that an app on their smartphones might be the reason their connection is so slow.
As well as your iPhone or Android device, this app could be on your laptop too – especially if you work from home.
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The app in question is a VPN.
VPNs – or virtual private network – create a digital connection between your gadget and a remote server.
With a work VPN, this means you can access work files and systems.
For those who use a personal VPN for greater privacy, the web traffic has to channel from one place to the other.
Doing either of these is obviously more work pinging data back and forth, which will slow things down.
So it’s not your broadband or Wi-Fi that’s the issue.
As Sky explains: “When it’s busy, like if lots of people are using it, it might take longer for data to pass through the servers.
“And some companies might limit the amount of data used by each person, to make sure there’s enough for everyone without being slowed down too much – so things that use a lot data like watching videos or video calling might be difficult at busy times.”
While you need to be connected to it during work time, switch it off when you’re not will feel like an instant speed boost.
You can also switch it off temporarily during Zoom calls if you’re having trouble with that too.
If it’s a company laptop or phone make sure you’re not breaking any rules before turning it off to avoid landing yourself in trouble.
Improve Wi-Fi
There are a number of other ways you can improve your Wi-Fi at home.
For instance, some objects can interfere with the signal, such as a microwave that’s on.
Other unexpected items that can cause havoc include mirrors and fish tanks.
The location of your router makes all the difference too.
Ideally you want a central location that’s high up – not on the ground.
Little-known objects that can disrupt your Wi-Fi
People don’t realise how many objects around the home can impact their Wi-Fi signal and slow things down. Here are some you may have missed.
- Microwaves (when they’re running)
- Baby monitors
- Fish tanks
- Mirrors
- Bluetooth devices
- Cordless phones
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