How to fix slow Wi-Fi and network lag on Windows 10 and 11 for small business offices

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix slow Wi-Fi and network lag on Windows 10 and 11 for small business offices. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Slow Wi-Fi and network lag can significantly impact office productivity, causing delays in cloud applications, video conferencing, and file transfers. This guide walks you through diagnosing and resolving common network performance issues on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your Windows device to clear temporary network glitches.
2. Restart your router or modem by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.
3. Move closer to your wireless access point to improve signal strength.
4. Disconnect unnecessary devices from the network to reduce congestion.
5. Run a speed test at speedtest.net to compare your current speeds against your internet plan.

Detailed Instructions

1. Check your Wi-Fi signal strength

1. Select the Network icon in the taskbar (bottom-right corner of the screen).
2. Check the Wi-Fi symbol next to your connected network.
3. If the signal is weak (one or two bars), move your device closer to the router or access point.
4. Remove physical obstructions between your device and the router, such as large furniture or thick walls.

2. Forget and reconnect to your Wi-Fi network

1. Select Start > Settings.
2. Select Network & internet (Windows 11) or Network & Internet (Windows 10).
3. Select Wi-Fi, then select Manage known networks.
4. Select your network and choose Forget.
5. Reconnect to the network by selecting it from the Wi-Fi list and entering your password.

3. Update your network adapter driver

1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters category.
3. Right-click your wireless adapter (often labelled Wi-Fi or Wireless) and select Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.
5. Restart your computer if a new driver is installed.

4. Flush your DNS cache

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns
4. Wait for the confirmation message, then restart your computer.

5. Change your DNS settings

1. Select Start > Settings > Network & internet.
2. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, then select your connected network.
3. Under DNS server assignment, select Edit.
4. Change from Automatic (DHCP) to Manual.
5. Turn on IPv4.
6. Enter the following addresses:
   • Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4
7. Select Save.

6. Disable bandwidth-hogging background apps

1. Select Start > Settings > Apps > Startup.
2. Review apps that start automatically with Windows.
3. Turn off any non-essential applications, particularly cloud sync tools and video streaming apps.

7. Check for Windows updates

1. Select Start > Settings > Windows Update (Windows 11) or Update & Security > Windows Update (Windows 10).
2. Select Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your device if prompted.

Troubleshooting

Network lag affects only one device

• Test another device on the same Wi-Fi network. If other devices work normally, the issue is isolated to your Windows computer.
• Try connecting via Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi to rule out wireless interference.
• Run the Windows network troubleshooter: Select Start > Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset or Troubleshoot.

Network lag affects all devices in the office

• Restart your office router and modem.
• Check if your internet service provider (ISP) is experiencing an outage in your area.
• Contact your ISP to confirm there are no line issues or plan limitations affecting your connection.

Slow speeds during video calls or cloud backups

• Schedule large backups or file transfers outside of business hours.
• Reduce video call quality settings (e.g., switch from HD to standard definition).
• Close unused browser tabs and applications that may be using bandwidth.

If you have completed these steps and are still experiencing slow Wi-Fi or network lag, Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team.

You may also find these related articles helpful:

• Computer running slow
• Browser not loading pages
• Applications freezing or crashing
• Blue screen of death (BSOD) - restart steps

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