This article will cover:

• Does my modem affect my internet speed?
• Run an internet ping test
• How to improve my upload speed
• How to improve my download speed
• How to improve Wi-Fi range
• Make your Wi-Fi work for you

Does my modem affect my internet speed?

Yes, it does – big time. Your modem plays a key role in how fast and stable your internet connection is. If it’s outdated, it can slow things down.

If you’ve been using your modem for a few years, it might not support the latest speed and performance standards. Upgrading to a newer model can make a noticeable difference. Newer models support faster speeds, better stability, and smarter features.

If you have a Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Modem, download the My Internet Connect app (Android / iOS) to help manage your modem performance.

Run an internet ping test

Want to know how responsive your connection is? Run a ping test. It measures latency – how quickly your device talks to the internet. Low ping means smoother gaming, clearer video calls, and faster browsing.

You can use free tools like speedtest.net. If your ping is consistently high, it might be time to check your setup or talk to your provider.

Learn more about Vodafone nbn® speeds.

How to improve my upload speed

On a video call that keeps freezing? Waiting on that file to send? Your upload speed could be dragging you down.

Start with the simple stuff:

• Shut down background apps, syncs, and anything else quietly chewing through your connection.

Still slow?

• Plug in. Swapping Wi-Fi for a direct Ethernet connection can seriously boost your upload power.

And if you’re still stuck waiting?

• It might be time to switch to a plan that has the upload speeds to better suit your needs. View the nbn® Key Fact Sheet to see what plan might suit you.

How to improve my download speed

Buffering during your favourite show? Downloads dragging? A few quick fixes can help:

• Restarting your modem is a classic move that still works.
• Updating your modem’s firmware can give it a much-needed performance boost. Firmware updates on Vodafone modems are all automatic.
• If you’ve got a dual-band modem, switch to the 5GHz band for faster speeds over short distances.

Too many devices connected at once? That’s like trying to host a party with one pizza. Disconnect what you don’t need.

How to improve Wi-Fi range

Dead zones are the enemy of smooth streaming. To push your signal further, start with smart placement. Your modem should:

• Be high up and central – not buried in a drawer or behind the TV. Walls, metal objects, and even microwaves can mess with your signal.
• Have air flow around it – if it’s crowded with other devices, it could overheat. This could affect performance or even temporarily shut down the modem.

If your home has thick walls, multiple floors, or rooms where the signal just doesn’t reach, a mesh Wi-Fi system can be a gamechanger. Mesh systems work by using several small devices placed around your home that all talk to each other, spreading your Wi-Fi signal more evenly. It’s ideal for larger spaces or households with lots of connected devices.

Interested in adding mesh to your home Wi-Fi? Explore the Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Mesh.

Wi-Fi mesh, extender or booster: What’s the difference?

If your Wi-Fi doesn’t reach every corner of your home, you’ve probably come across terms like extender, booster and mesh system. They all aim to improve coverage – but they work in different ways.

• Wi-Fi extender: Think of it as a signal repeater. It grabs the Wi-Fi from your modem and rebroadcasts it to reach further. It’s simple and affordable, but can sometimes slow things down or create a separate network name.
• Wi-Fi booster: Often used interchangeably with “extender,” but technically, a booster amplifies the signal from your modem to make it stronger. It’s best for short-range improvements.
• Wi-Fi mesh: This is the most advanced option. Mesh uses multiple devices placed around your home. They all talk to each other and your modem, creating one, big network with strong signal everywhere. No switching networks, no dropouts – just smooth coverage throughout your home.

Extenders and boosters stretch your signal. Mesh surrounds you with one, unified network.

Make your Wi-Fi work for you

Your home Wi-Fi should be fast, reliable, and ready for anything – whether you're working, streaming, gaming, or just scrolling. If you're dealing with slow speeds, patchy coverage, or frustrating dropouts, the fix might be simpler than you think.

Start with the basics:

• Place your modem smartly.
• Update your equipment.
• Check your internet plan.
• Run a ping test to spot issues.
• Manage your connected device.
• Consider upgrading to a mesh system if your home needs wider coverage.

Every home is different, but the goal is the same: a strong, stable connection that keeps up with your life. With the right setup, your Wi-Fi won’t just work – it’ll work brilliantly.