We’ve all been there—buffering videos, lagging video calls, and painfully slow downloads. You’re subscribed to a solid internet plan, yet your connection seems to crawl. If you’re using EarthLink Internet, the good news is, there’s a lot you can do to fix that.

This guide gives you 5 practical, no-nonsense tips to boost your EarthLink internet speed—without needing to be a tech whiz.

1. Choose the Right EarthLink Internet Plan for Your Needs

Before you start tweaking settings or blaming the router, ask yourself this: Are you on the right plan? If your internet speed feels sluggish, it might be time to review your current plan.

Check out these EarthLink internet options to ensure you’re subscribed to the one that matches your household size, device usage, and streaming habits.

Not all plans are built equally—especially if you’re juggling Zoom calls while your kids are binge-watching Netflix in HD.

2. Upgrade Your Equipment for Maximum Performance

Outdated modems and routers are often the silent killers of internet speed. If your equipment is over 3–4 years old, it might be time for an upgrade.

Here’s what to look for:

  • A dual-band or tri-band Wi-Fi router
  • DOCSIS 3.1 compatibility (for cable connections)
  • MU-MIMO technology (for multiple device streaming)

For those comparing different services or looking for the best internet plans with equipment included, some ISPs offer top-of-the-line routers as part of the package.

3. Reduce Wi-Fi Interference Around Your Home

Wi-Fi signals are delicate. They can be disrupted by walls, appliances, and even your neighbor’s network. To enhance your EarthLink internet speed, try these fixes:

  • Place your router in a central location, away from microwaves and cordless phones
  • Use Ethernet for critical devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles
  • Avoid putting your router near metal objects or thick walls

This tip is especially handy for larger homes or apartments with multiple rooms.

4. Track Data Usage and Limit Background Devices

Multiple devices connected to your Wi-Fi? That’s like splitting a pizza between ten people—everyone gets less.

To manage bandwidth:

  • Disconnect unused devices
  • Turn off background updates on smartphones and laptops
  • Use Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize tasks

Not sure if you’re paying for data you’re not using? Here’s a smart breakdown on understanding internet bill fees, surcharges, and surprise charges so you can trim costs and optimize performance.

5. Consider Switching to a More Affordable, High-Speed Plan

Sometimes the best way to increase your internet speed is simply to switch plans or providers. EarthLink is a strong option for many users, but if your area offers better speeds or deals, it’s worth comparing.

Explore affordable internet plans that suit your needs without breaking the bank. Many ISPs are now offering high-speed packages with no data caps or contracts.

Bonus Tip: Schedule Regular Router Reboots

Think of your router like a mini-computer. It benefits from a fresh start every now and then.

  • Reboot it once a week
  • Set a timer to automatically power cycle your router
  • This clears up memory and resets connections

Conclusion: Speed Isn’t Always About the Plan—It’s About the Setup

Whether you’re using EarthLink or another provider, maximizing internet speed often comes down to a mix of the right plan, equipment, and habits. From choosing the right package to minimizing interference and managing devices, these tips will help you get the most from your connection.