To increase internet speed in Windows 10, first run a speed test and restart your router. Then move closer to the router or use a network cable, stop apps that download in the background, limit Windows Update’s bandwidth in Delivery Optimization, and update your network driver.
Windows can’t make your connection faster than the plan from your internet provider, but it can stop things that slow it down.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.
1. Test your speed
Run a speed test in your browser and compare the result with your internet plan. Test again from another device. If every device is slow, the problem is your router or provider, not Windows.
2. Restart your router and PC
Turn the modem and router off, wait 30 seconds, and turn them back on. Then restart your PC.
3. Improve your Wi-Fi signal
- Move closer to the router, with fewer walls in between.
- Keep the router away from microwaves and cordless phones, which can interfere with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
- If your router offers a 5 GHz network, connect to it when you’re near the router. It’s usually faster.
- For the fastest, most stable connection, use a network cable.
4. Find apps that use your connection
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- On the Processes tab, select the Network column to sort by it.
- Close apps you don’t need, such as cloud sync or game launchers that are downloading.
5. Limit Windows Update downloads
- Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Delivery Optimization > Advanced options.
- Under Download settings, check the background download limit and lower the slider.
- Under Upload settings, limit uploads to other PCs, or turn off Allow downloads from other PCs on the main Delivery Optimization page.
6. Update the network driver and reset if needed
- Update your Wi-Fi or Ethernet driver from your PC maker’s website. See how to update all drivers on Windows 10.
- Scan for malware, which can slow your connection.
- If nothing helps, reset your network settings. See how to reset network settings in Windows 10.
Frequently asked questions
Why is only my PC slow?
Check the Task Manager Network column, update the network driver, and try a network cable. If the PC is also slow offline, see how to speed up your Windows 10 computer.
Do “internet booster” apps work?
Usually not. They can’t raise your plan’s speed, and some are unwanted software. Stick to the steps above.
Malware can also slow your connection. See how to scan for and remove malware in Windows 10.
You can also try other DNS servers. See how to change DNS in Windows 10.
To share your PC’s internet with a phone or tablet, see how to turn on mobile hotspot in Windows 10.
If you set up a proxy you no longer need, it can slow your connection. See how to change proxy settings in Windows 10.
To measure how quickly your connection responds, see how to check ping in Windows 10.
If only some websites are slow to load, see how to check and change the MTU in Windows 10.
If you use a network cable, make sure it runs at full speed. See how to get gigabit Ethernet speed in Windows 10.
On Windows 11, see how to check if something is downloading in the background.
Microsoft’s guide is Why is my Internet connection so slow?. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.