From doorbell cameras to Google Home Minis to smart locks-our homes are increasingly filled with the Internet of Things devices. The term “Internet of Things” is used to describe all the devices in your home that use an internet connection to exchange data.

Wired vs. WirelessĪ hardwired connection will always beat WiFi. Wherever possible, use an ethernet cable to connect devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, smart speakers, etc. This isn’t always possible, but when it is you’ll see a massive difference. Add in some lane closures – like older devices running updates or back-ups – and your speed is further reduced. Think of it like traffic on the highway. During rush hour when there’s a lot of traffic, the cars travel slower than usual. This is the same for your internet connection. Congestion is caused when everyone in your home is accessing the internet at the same time. Every device on your network decreases your bandwidth a portion, especially over WiFi. Nowadays it feels like everything connects to the internet in some way-from computers and smartphones to baby monitors and security cameras. All these devices in your home share your bandwidth.