How to Maintain High Internet Speed in your Modem

Probably you have seen these 'small gadgets' that most homes use to connect to Internet?

These 'small gadgets' are called modems. They are popular compared to the close alternative 'Wi-Fi' because they are affordable and easiest means to get Internet connectivity through three operators: Safaricom, Airtel and Orange.

Despite the easier access, there is still widespread lack of understanding on how to choose one from the other to give you real value for your money. You may think pricing is the main focus when purchasing a modem, it is all about speed and reliability, without which the gadget can be a source of everyday frustration!

Why is Your Internet Modem Slow?           

So you're about to pull your hair, with the annoyance of everyday painfully slow Internet connectivity? the choice of which modem to purchase can be confusing especially with every provider out there claiming to offer the best.

In my own view, the main difference between them is speed, which largely depends on the technology being used.

Words like EDGE, CDMA, GPRS, EVDO, 2G, 3G and 4G should not puzzle you; just know what level of speed each offers.

For example, true broadband (high speed) can be realized via use of 3G and EVDO (Evolution Data Optimised). Others such as GPRS, EDGE and CDMA are slow.  3-4 G is the fastest and is associated with the ability to transfer in real-time data (voice, non-voice) such as downloading information, exchanging email plus more.

Next is the General Packet Radio Service (GPS 2.5 modem), which is slower than 3G but much faster then 2G.

Therefore, It is advisable for those people who like to watch online videos or download large files to use 3G or EVDO modems. While those using the Internet for basic browsing and email could do just okay on 2.5G or CDMA modems (if they are still in existence).

It is important to note that, even though the speed quoted by Internet provider is their highest available speed, it is not the speed you will experience throughout. This is usually never explained when you are buying a modem.

The pace of your Internet depends mostly on the condition of your Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP may change their networks settings which can indirectly have effects on your connection.

For example during ISP's server upgrade. At times they may experience technical mishap on their network which will certainly slow down your net access. Other ISP companies (let me not mention which ones) may intentionally install website criteria filters applications on your Internet connection so as to control your traffic connection.

Other factors that may slow your Internet speed are worms. These are harmful software that have the ability to creep from one computer to another within the same network, this happens without your knowledge.

They will need Internet connection to crawl, hence occupying bandwidth that would have otherwise been used by your data, causing the connection to slow down. Remedy is to run an anti-virus regularly to make sure your network is safe.

Your browser, may it be Internet explorer, FireFox or chrome requires certain amount of computing power, memory and disk space to run effectively.

For example, Internet explorer every web page you view is first downloaded to memory and then saved to temporary disk files. Running another application that uses lots of memory and computing power can compete with your browser and cause delays.

If you find your Internet connection is 'dragging' and you have other programs running, try closing them. If you want to run several programs, consider increasing the memory by deleting temporary files you do not need.

Some factors such as the location set-up of your computer, operating system and memory availability; may also affect speed when you are surfing on the Internet.

This is because Internet works by sending data through a string of computers between you, your Internet service provider (ISP) and the website you want to reach, there may be limitations or overcrowding within those pathways.

So the next time you go shopping for a modem, you should do your homework first by speaking with people already on network, hear their experience or just buzz me.