Whether you are streaming a show, working from home or maybe doing some online gaming, slow broadband can really mess things up.
However, there is a simple trick that everybody can do with their router to help boost download speeds.
Telecommunications company Virgin Media sent out some advice to customers recently in a bid to help them jack up speeds - don’t worry if you are not with Virgin though, the trick works no matter what internet provider you are with.
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The TV and internet services company explained in an email to customers: "If your broadband is lagging, our first bit of advice is… to turn your Virgin Media hub off and on again.
"Yes, really. We know it’s not the most technical ‘hack’ but sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective!"
To do this simply find the power button in your router, the flashing box that gives you a connection, and flick it off. Then wait around 10 seconds for the router to shut down properly before booting it back up.
This reset should get rid of anything that might have been slowing down your connection, however, people should be aware that doing this will kick people off of the Wi-Fi and they will have to reconnect, Express reports.
"The hub can take five to 10 minutes to reboot. You’ll know the connection is back up and running when the white light on the front of the hub is on", the Virgin advice continued.
Virgin also explained that alongside a reboot, it is a good idea to have all cables plugged into the box to check if there is a connection problem.
The broadband provider added: "While you’re waiting, check over your equipment for faulty or damaged cables, which can cause problems with your network and slow down your internet speed.
“Also make sure your cables are tightly connected to the hub (finger-tight is all that is required, do not over-tighten as this could break the connector)".
There are plenty of other things that can be done to help increase the speed of your broadband. For example, a router free of obstructions is best - so make sure you do not keep your modem in a cupboard. Furthermore, keeping your router out of the kitchen and off the floor can help.
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