How to Increase Internet Speed on Windows 11: 8 Proven Optimization Methods
Slow internet speeds on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but the issue is often fixable with the right tweaks. Whether you’re dealing with Wi-Fi lag, slow downloads, or high latency, this guide covers 8 effective ways to boost your internet speed on Windows 11.
- Update Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can significantly slow down your connection.
✅ How to fix:
Press Win + X → Device Manager
Expand Network adapters → Right-click your Wi-Fi/Ethernet device → Update driver
Alternatively, download the latest driver from your manufacturer’s website (Intel, Realtek, Killer, etc.)
- Change DNS Servers
Windows 11 defaults to your ISP’s DNS, which may be slow. Switching to a faster DNS (like Google or Cloudflare) can improve speed.
✅ Best DNS servers to try:
Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 & 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 & 1.0.0.1
🔹 How to change DNS:
Win + R → ncpa.cpl → Right-click your connection → Properties
Select IPv4 → Use the following DNS server addresses → Enter preferred DNS
- Disable Metered Connection (For Wi-Fi)
Windows 11 may throttle bandwidth on metered connections.
✅ How to disable:
Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Click your network
Toggle Metered connection to Off
- Optimize TCP/IP Settings
Windows sometimes uses suboptimal network settings. Adjusting them can improve speed.
✅ How to optimize:
Open Command Prompt (Admin)
Run these commands:
bash
Copy Code
netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=restricted
netsh interface tcp set global rss=enabled
Restart your PC
- Disable Background Apps & Windows Updates
Background apps (like OneDrive, Xbox, and Windows Update) can hog bandwidth.
✅ How to stop them:
Settings → Privacy → Background apps → Disable unnecessary apps
Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Pause updates (temporarily)
- Disable IPv6 (If Not Needed)
Some networks don’t use IPv6, and keeping it enabled can cause slowdowns.
✅ How to disable:
Win + R → ncpa.cpl → Right-click your connection → Properties
Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)
- Reset Network Stack
Corrupted network settings can slow down your connection. Resetting them can help.
✅ How to reset:
Open Command Prompt (Admin)
Run these commands:
bash
Copy Code
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /flushdns
Restart your PC
- Upgrade Your Hardware (If Needed)
If software tweaks don’t help, your hardware might be the bottleneck.
✅ Possible upgrades:
Wi-Fi 6/6E adapter (for faster wireless speeds)
Gigabit Ethernet adapter (for wired connections)
Better router/modem (if outdated)
Final Thoughts
By following these 8 optimization methods, you should see a noticeable improvement in your Windows 11 internet speed. If the issue persists, check for ISP throttling or router problems.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use Speedtest.net before and after changes to measure improvements.
Would you like help with any specific step? 🚀