If your Xfinity internet has become slow, it could be because of some hardware or software glitches. And if you're on the Mobile plan, your data usage limit might be exceeded.
The quickest way to fix Comcast's internet throttling issues is to restart or power cycle the xFi gateway (or modem & router if you have separate devices).
If the issue persists after a reboot, there can be several other reasons which I shall list below. Apart from that, I'll also discuss 14 proven ways to fix the slow internet. Let's see which one works for you.
How To Know if Your Xfinity Internet is Slow?
To confirm if your connection is actually slow, the most standard way is to perform a speed test. Go to speedtest.xfinity.com and check your connection speed. Compare the results with your plan's normal speed to see how it performs:
- The connection is slow if the upload & download speed is less than your plan's normal speed.
- If the upload speed is good but the download speed is less than normal, there can be bandwidth restriction, network congestion, or a local outage in place. Manage data usage, upgrade networking devices, and/or use an ethernet cable.
- If the download speed is good, but you see a super slow upload speed, there can be some firmware or internet equipment-related issues. Contact your ISP for technical assistance.
- If the ping rate is under 50ms, your connection is fine. However, if it is between 100-150ms, the Jitter or Latency can affect your gaming or streaming sessions. Either upgrade your plan to a higher one or switch to an ethernet connection from a coax cable.
Why Is Comcast Internet So Slow Today?
Multiple reasons can be collectively or individually responsible. Some of the most common ones are:
- Outdated hardware
- Excessive data usage
- Too much network traffic during peak rush hours
- Bandwidth restriction or data cap
- Old or malfunctioned firmware
- Too many devices connected to the same network
- Physical obstructions around the router
- Bandwidth-hungry apps running in the background
- Auto app/software updates, large file downloads in the background
- Congested VPN server or malware attack
- Weaker signal strength
How To Fix The Slow Xfinity Internet?
Depending upon the possible cause, the fix that works for you can differ. So here I have mentioned all the possible troubleshooting tips to improve Xfinity Internet speeds and increase your internet speed.
This is one of the most common issues faced by those who rent an xFi XB6 gateway from Comcast. If you're also renting it, I suggest getting your own:
1. Restart Internet Equipment
Restarting the gateway can fix random glitches or connectivity issues. During the restart, the home network will be inactive; however, you won't lose any home network settings. You can restart your Xfinity gateway through its app, web browser, or manually.
Steps To Restart xFi Gateway Using Xfinity My Account App:
- Open the app and tap on the “Internet” icon.
- Choose your gateway and tap on “Restart this device”.
- Wait till restart completes and Xfinity modem lights become stable.
- Reconnect the devices and check the connection speed again.
Steps To Restart xFi Gateway Using Xfinity Website:
- Go to your Xfinity login page and enter your ID and password.
- Scroll down for the “Manage Internet” option.
- Choose “Restart Modem” and “Start Troubleshooting” to fix the issue.
Steps To Manually Restart xFi Gateway:
- Disconnect the connected devices and unplug the power cable from a gateway.
- Plug it back in after 1 minute and let the gateway set up. Take a speed test again to check connection performance.
2. Use a Wired or Ethernet Connection
To fix the Xfinity WiFi slow issue on a desktop or a laptop, disable the WiFi option and use an ethernet cable connection. The ethernet cable offers better speed and reliable connection over wireless as it is less susceptible to blockage through other neighboring networks.
Depending on the internet plan, you can opt for the following types of ethernet cables:
- Cat 5: For 100 Mbps internet
- Cat 5e: For 1000 Mbps internet
- Cat 6: For 10 Gbps internet
Check for loose or damaged connections if you already use an ethernet cable. Ensure that it is plugged into the right port.
For better connectivity in other rooms, opt for powerline adapters. They come in pairs of two and utilize your home's existing electrical wiring to offer better speed and connection. And for seamless connectivity across the large house or commercial setting, I'd recommend getting a mesh WiFi system for Xfinity.
3. Disable/Disconnect Unwanted Devices
Check how many devices are connected to your network and consuming its bandwidth. Go to your gateway's settings and see the list of all connected devices. Remove or disable the inactive ones to improve speed.
Also, disable the auto app updates or backups running on any connected devices, as they consume a lot of bandwidth. Clear app caches frequently on all connected devices.
Use a strong WiFi password for your network to prevent unauthorized access. Also, create a guest network for temporary access.
Disable the data usage of high-bandwidth apps running in the background on connected devices.
Steps To Limit Background Data Usage on Android:
- Go to device settings and choose the “Wifi & Internet” option.
- Under the data usage section, tap on the “Mobile or Cellular Data Usage” option.
- From the list of apps, choose the one you wish to restrict and disable the toggle next to “Background data”.
Steps To Limit Background Data Usage on iOS:
- Go to the device's “General” settings and tap on the “background app refresh” option.
- From the app lists, choose the one you wish to restrict from running in the background and disable its toggle.
4. Schedule Downloads and Updates to Night
The peak rush hours of Comcast Xfinity internet are usually between 7 pm to 11 pm (Monday to Friday). So, during peak hours, avoid downloading large data or backup files, as you will get slow speeds due to network congestion.
Reschedule your downloads late at night or early morning when fewer people are connected to the network for better speed.
5. Scan Devices with AntiMalware
If you notice Xfinity's slow internet speed on a particular device, it can be due to malware or virus attacks. Certain malware leaves copies behind to slow down your system and affect internet speed.
Run a complete malware scan using good antimalware software. Also, enable your device's firewall settings to prevent such attacks.
6. Remove Physical Obstructions Around the Router
Physical objects, thick walls, metals or electrical appliances around the modem or router can interfere with its wireless signal to block or weaken them. Ensure that there is no such object around your router that weakens its signal strength.
For better connectivity and equal distribution, place your gateway in the centre of your home instead of in corners. Avoid placing your gateway on walls or a metallic surface. Also, always place the router/modem on a flat non-metallic surface for better speed.
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7. Disable VPN Service
A VPN consumes a lot of data to keep your browsing activities secret through its proxy servers and encryption process. Also, if you use a crowded server that is farther from your actual location, it will consume more bandwidth.
So, disable the VPN when not in use to improve your connection speed. Alternatively, play with its encryption settings to see which one gives you better speed. Also, go for a server near your location and less crowded to consume fewer data.
8. Update the Router’s Firmware
An outdated or malfunctioned router firmware can also affect your connection speed. Updating it to the latest version can give you better speed as the developer fixes bugs in the latest upgrade. Check if the firmware upgrade is available for your gateway and update it to the latest version if you haven't done in a while.
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Steps to Update Router’s Firmware:
- Paste your IP address in a browser's address bar to access the router login page. Enter “Admin” as username and password to log in.
- Look for the Firmware or Router Upgrade option.
- Check if the firmware upgrade is available. Let the upgrade complete and then take a speed test to notice the difference.
9. Check for Local Outages or Maintenance
The maintenance work or a local network outage in your area can also affect your connection speed. Contact your ISP or check third-party websites to confirm the local outage. If that is the reason, wait patiently till your ISP restores the services.
10. Change Frequency Band
The neighboring wireless network in your home, like security systems, voice assistants, etc., operates on a 2.4 GHz frequency and interferes with your gateway's signal if the frequency is the same.
Thus, if you use a dual-band router or modem, change the WiFi frequency to 5.0 GHz for high-bandwidth usage devices to avoid network congestion.
However, the 5.0 GHz frequency is not available in the single-band router, so you have to upgrade to a dual or tri-band router. Also, enable the “Smart Connect” feature that optimizes both frequency bands into a single network for optimal performance.
11. Reset Network Settings on Your Devices
Resetting network settings on all the connected devices will wipe the old paired network data. After resetting, you can reconnect the priority devices to the network to manage data usage.
Steps to Reset Network Settings on Your Devices:
- Go to the device settings and tap on the “General Management” option.
- Scroll down for the “Reset” tab and click on the “Reset network settings”.
12. Reset Your WiFi Router
If nothing above works for you, there can be some configuration issues in your gateway causing slow speed. Resetting the router will clear its configuration settings and fix the issue. But you have to set up the gateway again. So, do it when nothing above works for you.
Steps to Reset Network Settings on Your Devices:
- Disconnect all the connected devices and locate a small “reset” button on your router.
- Press it for 30 seconds until the power light starts blinking.
- Release it and wait for the power light to turn solid again, indicating the successful completion of the reset process.
- Set up the gateway and reconnect devices. Take a speed test to notice the difference.
13. Upgrade Your Internet Equipment
Outdated networking equipment also affects internet speed as it cannot handle high-connection requests. If you use Gigabit plans and need faster/better speed, replace your xFi gateway with a third-party router that can handle multiple devices.
Also, opt for a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and 32 x 8 channel bonding for better connectivity. Use a Mesh WiFi system or range extenders to get better signals if you have a big house or multiple floors.
14. Upgrade the Internet Package
For smooth streaming and online activities simultaneously on multiple devices, at least 25 Mbps download speed is dedicatedly required for each device. Upgrade to a suitable plan depending on the number of devices you need to connect and your work requirements.
We suggest Homeowners check out our guide on the best internet providers and best fiber internet plans. Sometimes, your internet plan is what's holding you back and not your hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
There can be several possible reasons for the bad connection of Xfinity internet. It can be due to network congestion, local network outage, bandwidth restriction or excessive data usage. Manage your data usage on connected devices and contact ISP for local outages.
To speed up Xfinity internet, upgrade your current plan or disconnect the unwanted devices from the network. Upgrade router firmware, use an ethernet connection, wifi range extender, modem, etc. Also, place your router where signal strength is good and scan your devices with antimalware.
No, Xfinity doesn't throttle the internet. However, users can experience poor speed due to network congestion, bandwidth restriction or excessive daily data usage.
Conclusion
So, these are some possible and effective ways to improve your Xfinity internet connection. If the slow speed issue persists, contact your ISP for a technician visit or further technical assistance. Also, ensure that you are using the right plan per your needs.
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