In rare cases slow speeds and connectivity problems can sometimes be attributed to a conflict with your routers hardware firewall. Most firewalls can usually be disabled by a simple option on the router, although we do not recommend doing this as the risk to security may be too great.

15. Use a better router.

Sadly consumers rarely have much choice over the router modem their ISP supplies. Never the less it’s still worth pointing out that certain routers have been known to work better with problematic lines, such as those made by Netgear.

They’re unlikely to afford a great deal of improvement over your existing device, yet many cheaper alternatives are often more susceptible to line noise, not to mention connectivity problems during thunderstorms. Our old K-Corp router would drop every time lightning appeared, yet the newer Linksys one does not.

16. Allow the ADSL “MAX” line to reset.

It may or may not improve your connection, yet turning off your router for just over half an hour will allow ADSL “MAX” (up to 8Mbps) lines to reset. This can be handy in situations where repeated disconnect and reconnections have lowered the speed of your line, allowing some time for a reset may improve the situation.

General advice

The tips above are largely specific in nature and if you are having problems then it should always be queried with your ISP first, although there are some things you can try before doing that:

a. Reboot your router to see if the problem goes away (switch it off for 2 minutes).

b. Check your router manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware updates, remembering to note down any custom settings you may have made prior to updating.

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