How can software settings affect my internet connection?

Some firewall or anti-virus software can restrict or block information getting to and from the Internet which causes slow speeds or even makes it seem as though there is no connection at all.

  • Check that your firewall/anti-virus settings are compatible with the broadband connection.
  • Spyware, adware and malware programs are not immediately obvious and may be running on your computer. Run a virus scan to check whether any of these programs exist on your computer and remove them.
  • If your Internet cache or temporary Internet files folder is full, your computer will have nowhere to store the data it’s downloading while it opens them up to build the page which can slow things down a lot.
  • If you are part of an office network please check with your IT Department or IT Service Provider that the network is operating correctly. Changes to the network or other users utilising the network may restrict or limit your access.