The upload speed of an internet connection gets unnoticed mostly. But when it comes to uploading large files, making zoom calls, and playing online games, a slower upload speed can be frustrating.
Usually, upload speeds are slower compared to download speeds for home internet connections. This is mostly because the internet service providers intend it to be. However, other problems like outdated firmware, faulty routers, firewalls, and malware can slow down the upload speed too.
Why Is My Upload Speed So Slow When Compared to the Download
Business internet connections usually have almost the same upload and download speed. But for home internet connections, it is not the same. Typically, the upload speed is slower because of business policy. Here are some reasons for the slow upload speed.
1. Limited Upload Bandwidth Capacity
Most users prioritize download speed over upload speed. Because, in most cases, the uploads take place in the background and users are not waiting for those to finish. On the other hand, people tend to download more stuff than upload which makes them more sensitive to download speed.
As for the internet service providers, they have to split the available bandwidth in the cable for upload and download for each connection. For home connections, they dedicate a great portion of available bandwidth for download. This makes sense because average users usually do a lot more downloads than uploads.
On the contrary, in some cases, say to run a server, you will need the other way around. But the majority of domestic users don’t need the such capability. As a result, if split evenly, a big part of the upload bandwidth will be unused by that majority group.
For this reason, in favor of better download speeds, internet service providers dedicate less bandwidth for uploads, causing limited upload speeds. Often, the upload speed of home internet connections is 1/10th of the download speed.
2. Other Reasons for Slower Upload Speed
Though limited upload bandwidth is the main reason for slower upload speed, there can be other reasons. Such as –
- Security firewalls in your device, especially if you are using a third-party antivirus software
- Outdated router firmware and driver
- Faulty router or modem
- Malware
- Too many users using wi-fi at once
- Upload lag caused by your device
How to Fix Slow Upload Speed Easily
Your internet service provider holds the keys to the upload-download speed ratio. If the upload speed provided to you isn’t enough, you can give them a call and ask them to increase the upload speed. Your download speed will likely slow down a bit because more of your internet cable’s bandwidth will be used by uploads.
If you don’t want to increase your upload speed right away, you can start by troubleshooting from your end. If trying to identify the problems overwhelms you, you can ask for help from your internet service provider.
What is considered a good upload speed?
Answer: For an average household three, 3 Mbps can be a decent benchmark for upload speed. However, for a larger household, the speed should be increased. If you tend to upload data frequently, you may need 25 Mbps or more.
Final Thoughts
Usually, the default upload speed for home connections will not be as fast as the download speed. But you can always ask your internet service provider to increase it for you. Nonetheless, run a checklist first and see if you can solve the problem by yourself.
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