Why Your Internet Upload Speed is Slow—and Simple Ways to Speed It Up
Having slow internet upload speeds can be frustrating, especially if you're trying to upload files, use video calls, or share content online. According to SpeedTest, despite the United States’ median fixed broadband upload speed of 37.38 Mbps, many people still experience sluggish upload speeds that make these tasks difficult. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through why your upload speed might be slow and give you simple ways to speed it up.
If you rather not go through these steps and have a professional troubleshoot your slow internet we got you covered!
Internet Download & Internet Upload Speed: What is the Difference?
When it comes to internet speed, we often hear about "download" and "upload" speeds. But what's the difference?
- Internet Download Speed: This is how quickly your internet can pull data from the internet to your device. Think of it like watching a movie or loading a webpage.
- Internet Upload Speed: This is how fast data travels from your device to the internet, like when you send an email or upload a video.
Both are important for a smooth internet experience, but each one matters for different reasons!
What is a Good Internet Speed?
A "good" internet speed depends on what you need it for. For everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming music, or online shopping, a modest speed might be enough. But for more demanding tasks, you’ll want faster speeds.
What is a Good Download Speed?
Good download speeds usually start around 25 Mbps (megabits per second). This should be enough for basic browsing and streaming on one or two devices. For a household with multiple devices streaming in HD or 4K, 100 Mbps or more is ideal.
What is a Good Upload Speed?
A solid upload speed is typically around 3 Mbps for basic tasks like video calling. If you work from home or upload large files frequently, you’ll want at least 10 Mbps. Upload speeds are generally lower than download speeds, but if they’re too low, it can make certain activities difficult.
What is Considered Fast Internet?
"Fast" internet often means having download speeds of 100 Mbps or higher. This allows for streaming, gaming, and browsing on multiple devices without interruption. For upload speeds, anything over 10 Mbps is generally considered fast.
What are Fast Download Speeds?
Fast download speeds start at 100 Mbps. This level is good for HD streaming, quick downloads, and seamless browsing, even on several devices at once. For those streaming in 4K or gaming heavily, 200 Mbps or more is ideal.
What are Fast Internet Upload Speeds?
Upload speeds above 10 Mbps are typically fast enough for video calls, uploading videos, and other data-heavy tasks. If you're creating content or working from home, consider speeds closer to 20 Mbps or higher.
What is Considered Slow Internet Speed?
Internet speeds below 25 Mbps for downloads and 3 Mbps for uploads can feel slow. At these speeds, streaming, video calling, and downloading files may take longer and experience buffering or lag.
My Internet Download Speed is Fast, But My Internet Upload Speed is Slow—Why?
It’s common for download speeds to be faster than upload speeds because most internet plans focus on downloads. However, if your upload speed is unusually slow, it could be due to outdated equipment, network congestion, or restrictions from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Why You Have Slow Internet Upload Speeds
If your upload speed isn’t up to par, several factors might be at play:
- Outdated hardware like an old router or modem
- ISP restrictions or data throttling
- Too many devices connected to your network
- Out-of-date software or drivers
- Network congestion during peak hours
Below, we’ll go over some of these issues and how to fix them.
If You Have Slow Internet Upload Speed on a Computer, Why Is That Using More Power?
When your upload speed is slow, your computer might work harder to keep sending data, especially during uploads or video calls. This extra work can drain your battery faster and increase power usage. Improving upload speeds may reduce the energy your device uses.
Fixing Slow Internet Upload Speeds
Here’s a breakdown of common upload speed issues and what you can do to solve them.
Outdated Hardware (Router or Modem)
Older routers and modems may limit your internet speed, as they lack the technology to support higher data rates. Routers or modems more than five years old might struggle with today’s internet speeds, especially for high-definition video calls, online gaming, or large file uploads. Furthermore, as technology advances, ISPs often update their infrastructure to work better with newer equipment, meaning older devices can become a bottleneck.
Solution: Installing a new WiFi router or modem can greatly improve upload speeds. Look for models labeled as “dual-band” or “tri-band,” which manage multiple devices better and reduce congestion on your network. If you’re not sure what to buy, contact your ISP for recommendations—some ISPs even provide equipment with plans that support faster speeds.
Our Favorite Router
Orbi RBK853
Orbi Mesh Wifi Router
This powerful mesh system offers lightning-fast speeds and expansive coverage, making it perfect for larger homes or households with multiple devices.
- Blazing Speeds: With WiFi 6 technology, the Orbi system delivers up to 6Gbps of speed, ensuring smooth video calls, lag-free gaming, and seamless file uploads.
- Whole-Home Coverage: The system covers up to 7,500 square feet and can handle over 100 connected devices, eliminating dead zones and providing consistent connectivity throughout your home.
- Tri-Band Technology: Its dedicated backhaul band ensures high-speed communication between the router and satellite, keeping your network fast even with heavy usage.
- Easy Setup and Management: The Orbi app makes setup simple and allows you to manage your network with features like guest WiFi, parental controls, and speed tests.
- Built for High Performance: Perfect for 4K/8K streaming, smart home devices, and high-bandwidth activities.
Whether you're dealing with slow internet upload speeds or spotty Wi-Fi coverage, the NETGEAR Orbi system is a worthwhile investment to maximize your internet experience.
Problems with Hardware (Router/Modem)
Sometimes, hardware issues can cause slower upload speeds. Loose cables, overheating, or outdated firmware can all be culprits.
Solution: Check connections, restart your router, and ensure it’s running the latest firmware. You can usually update firmware from the router’s settings page.
Your Internet Provider is Restricting Your Upload Speed
Some ISPs may throttle (limit) upload speeds, especially during peak times.
Solution: Contact your ISP to see if they’re restricting speeds. You might consider switching to a plan or provider with better upload speeds if this continues to be an issue. For further details on why your wifi is slow check out our detailed blog on it.
There are Too Many Devices Connected to Your Internet Network
Multiple devices sharing the same network can slow things down. Phones, laptops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles all compete for bandwidth.
Solution: Disconnect devices that aren’t in use, especially when doing something that requires a strong upload speed, like a video call.
Your Wi-Fi Adapter Driver is Not Updated
The driver for your Wi-Fi adapter helps it communicate with your device. Outdated drivers can lead to slower speeds.
Solution: Update your Wi-Fi adapter driver from your computer’s settings. This can be done through the device manager on Windows or the network settings on macOS.
Your Devices Have Been Infected with Malware
Malware or viruses can slow down your upload speeds by using bandwidth for unwanted tasks, like sending spam.
Solution: Run antivirus software to check for and remove any malware. Regular scans keep your device secure and can improve performance.
Our Favorite Antivirus Software
Cover 5 devices for only $39.99!
VPN Settings Impacting Your Upload Speed
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can slow internet upload speeds because it routes your data through a different server.
Solution: If you’re using a VPN, try disconnecting it temporarily to see if speeds improve. For regular VPN users, choosing a faster VPN service or server location can help. Check out our in depth blog on how a VPN affects internet speeds.
Our Favorite VPN
Get the fastest VPN on the market for only $3.59 a month!
Ethernet Cable Wiring
Using a hardwired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi can significantly improve your slow internet upload speeds. Unlike Wi-Fi, which is susceptible to interference from walls, furniture, and other electronic devices, an Ethernet connection offers a direct link to your router. This wired connection is often faster, more stable, and more reliable, especially for data-heavy activities like video calls, gaming, or large file uploads.
Ethernet connections also bypass common Wi-Fi issues like signal strength and network congestion, which can slow down your internet. For households with several connected devices, a wired connection ensures that you’re getting the most out of your available upload speed.
Solution: If possible, connect your device directly to your router with an Ethernet cable. For desktop computers or laptops in a fixed location, this can make a noticeable difference. Even ethernet cable installations from your router to access points for each area of your setup will drastically make a difference on stability and internet download and internet upload speeds! If your setup doesn’t allow for a direct connection to the router, consider running an Ethernet cable to your workspace, or explore powerline adapters that use your home’s electrical wiring to extend the connection.
Switching to Ethernet can be a quick, affordable fix to improve slow internet upload speeds and provide a more consistent internet experience.
Final Thoughts on Slow Internet Upload Speeds
Slow internet upload speeds don’t have to be frustrating. By understanding why they’re slow, you can take steps to speed things up, whether that’s upgrading your hardware, adjusting settings, or working with your ISP. Taking these steps can lead to smoother online experiences, from video calls to uploading files. If you rather not go through these steps and have a professional troubleshoot your slow internet we got you covered!
