7 easy tricks to boost internet speed on Android phones

We all experience this: trying to load a webpage, stream a video or open an app on our Android phones. However, sometimes the internet becomes so slow that it feels like it is crawling.

Slow internet on a phone affects downloads and uploads, websites take longer to open and videos may remain stuck instead of playing smoothly. Fortunately, Android phones offer several tools and tricks that can help improve internet speed.

Clear background apps

Apps running in the background use data, processing power and internet connectivity. Clearing or disabling unnecessary background apps can prevent them from affecting internet speed. For this purpose, go to Settings and disable unnecessary apps running in the background.

Clear cache for faster internet

When you use apps or visit websites on an Android phone, the device stores some data known as cache. These files are designed to help apps and websites run more efficiently and can be useful in the short term.

However, when too many cache files accumulate, they may affect performance and internet speed. Therefore, clearing an app’s cache can help improve the device’s performance. To do this, go to Settings, select Apps, open the relevant app’s information page then select Storage and tap Clear Cache.

Update operating system and apps

Outdated operating systems and apps can affect performance and internet speed. Keeping your software and apps updated can help maintain better speed while also improving the overall performance of your phone.

Use fast browser

A web browser can directly affect your browsing experience and internet performance. Browsers such as Google Chrome and Firefox are regularly updated and their performance is continuously improved.

Adjust Airplane Mode

Airplane Mode on smartphones is primarily designed to disable radio-frequency signal transmission. When Airplane Mode is turned on, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cellular signals are switched off, stopping wireless communication.

However, this feature can also be used to refresh your internet connection. Smartphones connect to nearby mobile towers for cellular signals. When you move around throughout the day, your phone may not always connect to the best available tower.

Resetting the connection through Airplane Mode may help improve internet speed. Simply turn Airplane Mode on and wait for a short while before turning it off again. This may allow your Android phone to reconnect to a better mobile tower and improve internet speed.

Restart your phone or router

Restarting devices can also improve their performance. Restarting your smartphone or router may clear temporary errors and can sometimes help improve internet speed.

Move closer to router

Distance is important when using a Wi-Fi connection. If possible, move closer to your router. This can improve the signal strength and may result in a faster and more stable internet connection.