We’ve been in the age of fast broadband internet for more than a decade in most parts of the world. But that’s exactly why it can be so infuriating when your internet slows down and you see that NetFlix video buffering, or you’re game of OverWatch lagging while your teammates wonder what the hell happened. To prevent all that, here are a few simple steps to make sure your phone line and the whole setup is optimized for fast internet.
Install DSL Filters
If you haven’t already, put in DSL filters into every phone jack you have. This includes jacks that connect phones, as well as various devices that connect to your phone line and the internet.
Simply put, these DSL filters split DSL and voice signals and prevent your modem from getting interference which can happen when someone is making a call, but also when no one is using the phone. Of course, the interference slow down the speed of your internet and can disconnect you from online games, for instance, or various sites like Facebook. At the same time, you might get interference during phone conversations from your modem, so having these DSL filters is a must.
You can buy them both from your service provider, but also from almost any local store that sells computer equipment. Moreover, you can also order them from Amazon, and installation is very straightforward.
Check your Phone Cord Length
Lots of people overlook the fact that using phone cords that are over 12 feet in length can compromise your internet connection. It’s simple: with a longer cord, the signal has to travel farther and work harder which can degrade the connection and cause all sorts of problems.
To remedy this situation, find and use the cord that came out of the box with your DSL modem as it should be the suggested length. However, for a variety of reasons, some people can’t use shorter cords. If that’s the case for you, you can ask a professional or your phone company to come and install one or more wall phone jacks, so that you can optimize your setup.
Try Installing a Splitter
The last option that we suggest is to call a certified professional or your internet company and ask them to put in a splitter on your NID box (Network Interface Device).
This box sits outside up against your home and has all the wiring necessary for you to use the internet or call someone. Unfortunately, your phone and internet connection are on the same line, so this can cause interference and static as well as dropped connections.
When you install a splitter in this NID box, you won’t need to buy filters, but this option is more expensive than small DSL filters used inside. Nonetheless, after installation, only one phone jack will carry a DSL signal. The trouble with this approach is that you will have to rewire if you need to plug your modem into a different jack, so consider which outlet you want to use befure making the final decision.
