How To: Increase Download Speed On Your Internet Connection

Step 1

Check with your ISP about alternatives to the Internet. The speed of your Internet connection is the most important variable in your download speed. If you have dial-up Internet access, consider upgrading to a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) or cable connection. Even if you already have cable, your ISP could have faster cable service available.

Step 2

Understand a fast connection. Connection speed is measured by the amount of data that can be transmitted per second, usually kilobits per second (Kbps) or megabits per second (Mbps). There are 1024 Kilobytes in a megabit. Most dial-up connections are 56 Kbps, while the cable can be as fast as 20 Mbps. When you contact your ISP, they should be able to tell you how fast their connections. But still dont forget that a KB is less than an MB.

Step 3

Close all open programs you need to download. This will free up your computer's resources to better manage data transfer. If possible, have the computer retrieve the files you need while you are away from your computer.

Step 4

Prioritize your downloads. Only download files that you really want to and start other downloads later. The more files you download at the same time, the slower the files download.

Step 5

Try downloads at different times of day. The more people who download the same file, the slower file downloads for all. If you have a slow download, try it at a different time of day when fewer people may try to download the same file.

Step 6

Install Download Accelerator or other tool that optimizes your PC download capability. It not only increases the speed of your downloads, it will help you to manage them. When you start downloading a file, save Download Accelerator file so you can continue to download it later if necessary. To get Download Accelerator, go to Google, search for Download Accelerator, find a good accelerator, (DAP is good) and follow the instructions.