How to Optimize Comcast Internet

by Amanda Johnson, Demand Media

Optimize your Internet connection with some equipment upgrades and software updates.

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Comcast features cable TV, phone service and high speed Internet, and offers a few Internet packages, which range in Internet connection speed. All of Comcast's Internet packages give customers access to Comcast.net and multiple personal email accounts. A few things can be done to optimize the performance of Comcast Internet. Comcast high speed Internet can be affected by hardware, such as the computer, modem and wireless network equipment.

Step 1

Determine your computer processor speed (CPU), memory and operating system. If you are a Windows user, click the "Start" button and locate the "Control Panel." Go to "Performance & Maintenance," then "System." Your CPU, memory and operating system will be listed in the "General" tab. If you are a Mac user, click on the Apple button and locate "About This Mac." Your CPU, memory and operating system will be listed in the "More Info" tab.

Step 2

Upgrade your computer if it outdated. Comcast states that their Internet works best with Windows XP and newer or MAC OS 10.4 or newer. Install a newer operating system if yours is not up-to-date. Comcast says that at least one gigabyte of RAM is recommended. You can purchase more RAM for your computer, if needed. Comcast also states that your computer's processor speed should be at 1.5 GHz. To increase computer speed, always install updates. You can also run defragmentation.

Step 3

Install an updated version of your Internet browser. Go to your Internet browser's website and check for an update. Download the latest version to optimize Comcast Internet.

Step 4

Utilize Comcast's TCP Optimizer. The useful tool modifies your network settings to enhance your connection to the Internet.

Step 5

Optimize your Comcast Internet connection by removing spyware. Download Comcast's Toolbar, which scans your computer for spyware and removes it. You may also want to scan for viruses using a program such as Norton.

Step 6

Reboot your modem to download updates. Turn off your computer and unplug the cable modem from the outlet. After a 10 second period, plug the modem back into the outlet. Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer.

Step 7

Upgrade your router if you are connecting to the Internet wirelessly. A router having Wireless-N technology is a good choice.

Tips & Warnings

  • Get more hard drive space by removing cache and temporary files from your Internet browser.
  • Select a modem that is on Comcast's Approved Modem List.

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References

  • Comcast: How to Get the Most from Your XFINITY Internet Service
  • Comcast: How to Determine Your Processor Speed, Memory, and Operating System
  • Microsoft: How to Get More RAM: Add More Memory to Your Computer
  • Comcast: Power Cycling Your Modem

Resources

  • Comcast
  • Comcast: TCP Optimizer
  • Comcast: Comcast Toolbar
  • Comcast: List of Approved Cable Modems for Use With the XFINITY Internet Service

About the Author

Amanda Johnson has been writing for online publications since 2009. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and is pursuing a Master of Arts in counseling. Johnson is a certified victim advocate and also owns a home-based business selling homemade jewelry and crafts. In her spare time, she enjoys being a mother and remodels her home.

Photo Credits

  • Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images