Likely fix
Fix: WiFi is slow on one device only
Slow WiFi on one device is usually caused by weak signal, background downloads, VPN, old drivers, low-power mode, or that device choosing a crowded WiFi band.
Quick answer
Move the device closer to the router, turn off VPN, pause background downloads, and test again. If other devices are fast, focus on that device's settings and software.
Important warning
2.4 GHz usually reaches farther but is slower. 5 GHz is usually faster but has shorter range.
Try this
- 1 Move the device closer to the router and test again.
- 2 Turn off VPN temporarily.
- 3 Pause cloud backups, downloads, game updates, or streaming apps.
- 4 Forget the WiFi network and reconnect.
- 5 Restart the device.
- 6 Update the operating system or WiFi driver.
- 7 Try switching between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network if both are available.
Common causes
The device is far from the router.
VPN is slowing the connection.
Background downloads or cloud backup are using bandwidth.
The device is on a slower WiFi band.
The WiFi driver or operating system needs an update.
What to check next
- Check whether other devices are fast in the same room.
- Check whether the device is using VPN.
- Check for active downloads, cloud backup, or game updates.
- Check whether speed improves near the router.
- Check whether 5 GHz is faster than 2.4 GHz for that device.