Slow DSL Connections

A relatively inexpensive device called a POTS splitter added at the network interface device can significantly increase your DSL speeds. The NID is where the telephone signal comes into your house. Adding a POTS splitter separates the voice signals from the data signals and routes them to the proper devices. You can purchase a POTS splitter online, or possibly at your local electronics store, for as little as $30. Put your DSL modem as close to the NID and POTS splitter as you can for best results.

Poor computer maintenance can slow down your computer and, in turn, your Internet connection. Clear out any cache and temporary folders, run a disk scan and defragment your hard drive to ensure your computer is running at optimum speed. Perform routine scans for viruses and malware programs as these can also cause sluggish Internet service. Consider running a diagnostic check on all your hardware and software to make sure there are no conflicts. If you have a router connected to your modem, reset it. This will erase any settings that may be slowing down your connection.

If you've done everything you can on your end to speed up your connection, you should call your phone company and ask them to perform two tests: a speed test and a line test. A speed test determines whether the problem is on your end or the phone company's. If the speed test indicates the problem is with the phone company, request that they fix it as soon as possible. The line test will tell you if your phone line has too much noise caused by other devices connected to your phone line. Remove any unnecessary devices to reduce noise and try your Internet connection again.

If your DSL service is still sluggish after trying all of these suggestions, you may want to consider switching to cable broadband or another type of high-speed Internet access. DSL speed is influenced by other DSL traffic as well as phone traffic, and phone traffic takes precedence, so if you live in an area that regularly experiences high call volumes, this could be the cause of your slow DSL. Your distance from a DSL access point could also be the problem. The digital signal can only travel about 18,000 feet from a service point. If your home is on the fringe of this radius, you may not be able to speed up your connection.