How do I fix high ping after a storm

1 answer

If you're experiencing high ping after a storm, it could be due to various factors such as issues with your internet connection, hardware, or even external factors that could have emerged due to the storm. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix your high ping issue:

Check Your Internet Connection

  1. Restart Your Modem and Router: Unplug your modem and router, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug them back in. This can resolve temporary connectivity issues.

  2. Check Line Quality: Use tools like ping test websites or traceroute commands to see if your connection is encountering high latency due to specific hops on your network.

  3. Check for Service Outages: Contact your ISP or check their website/social media for any reported outages in your area. Severe weather can sometimes lead to outages.

Check for Physical Damage

  1. Inspect Cables and Connections: Look for any visible damage to your cables (Ethernet or coaxial) and connections. The storm could have affected your lines.

  2. Ensure Filters are in Place: If you’re using DSL, make sure that phone line filters are properly connected.

  3. Test Different Connections: If possible, connect your device to the modem directly using an Ethernet cable rather than relying on Wi-Fi.

Optimize Your Network

  1. Limit Devices: Disconnect devices that aren't currently in use. Too many devices connected can slow down your network.

  2. Change Wi-Fi Channel: If you’re on Wi-Fi and your connection is congested, try switching to a less used channel in your router settings.

  3. Update Firmware: Make sure your router's firmware is up to date, as manufacturers often release updates to improve performance.

Advanced Steps

  1. Use Quality of Service (QoS): If your router supports it, enable QoS features to prioritize gaming or streaming traffic on your network.

  2. Contact Your ISP: If the issue persists, reach out to your ISP. They can check for line quality issues or signal strength problems.

  3. Consider Using a different DNS: Switching from your default DNS to a public DNS provider like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can sometimes improve connection speeds.

Other Troubleshooting

  1. Check Computer Settings: Ensure that your computer’s network drivers are up to date. Resetting your network settings can also help.

  2. Test on Different Devices: Check if high ping is on multiple devices or just one. This can help identify if the issue is localized to one device.

  3. Check for Background Programs: Make sure there are no apps or updates downloading in the background that could be consuming bandwidth.

Long-term Considerations

  • If your area frequently experiences storms, consider discussing more robust internet infrastructure options with your ISP or community resources.
  • If it's feasible, investing in a surge protector for your electronics can protect against damage from future storms.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and possibly resolve the high ping issue you’re experiencing after the storm.