Understand Factors That Affect Connectivity



Connectivity tools and troubleshooting tips



Step 1: Verify connections

  • Verify that the power cord is securely connected.


Step 2: Reboot the modem and router (if any)

  • Wait for approximately one minute for the modem to reset.


Step 3: Restart your computer

  • Close all open applications and files.
  • Once your computer has restarted, open a browser.

Antivirus and cleaning tools in the Security Suite by McAfee® work to optimize computer performance. Learn more about Security Suite.

Follow the recommended and minimum system requirements for optimal computer performance.


Bits per second

Bytes per second

How do we measure speed

Many factors external to the Internet delivered to your home can affect your Internet speed and performance.

Wired or wireless

For the best Internet experience, a wired connection using an Ethernet cable that connects your device directly to your Internet Modem is always recommended. Devices that are particularly data-intensive and require more bandwidth, such as gaming systems or streaming video players, also perform better when wired.

If you are connecting over WiFi using a wireless device (laptop, tablet, phone, etc.), your speed will be slower, but there are several things you can do to maximize performance.

Type of device or equipment

Internet devices vary in their performance, from desktops to laptops, gaming devices to smart TVs. Each of them has a maximum Internet speed that can be reached, and, depending on the age of your device, you may not be able to reach the maximum speed to which you’re subscribed. For example, an older computer with a slower processor and less memory (RAM) may run more slowly than a newer computer with a faster processor and more RAM.

Number of devices and activity

Multiple devices sharing your Internet connection at the same time, whether wired or using WiFi, can affect your Internet speed. Data-heavy activities, such as streaming HD movies, online gaming, video conferencing, etc., especially if done at the same time, will reduce the amount of bandwidth available for other Internet users. The more devices and users that are doing activities at the same time, the higher the speed you need for optimal performance.

Your Internet Modem

If you have an older modem or if you have received speed upgrades from Time Warner Cable, you may need to replace your modem to support your higher speed and/or changes in technology. If you are leasing a modem from TWC, we will replace it at no cost to you. If you bought your own modem, see if it is compatible with your subscribed speed and replace it as needed.

Other networks and websites you visit

When browsing or downloading, there are a number of factors that could affect your experience, including:

  • Other websites may not have the same network speeds as you.
  • The website server capacity may be underpowered for the number of people using it at the same time.
  • The website owners’ Internet connection could be slow, limiting the number of simultaneous users accessing it or slowing the amount of data that can be sent to the users.
  • Some sites may throttle download rate on a per-user or per-connection basis.
  • Visiting sites at high peak times.

Web browser

A corrupted or poorly configured web browser is one of the most common bottlenecks for fast web browsing. Check if you need to upgrade to the latest version of your browser.

Adware or spyware

If your computer is infected with "adware", "spyware" or "malware", then you'll likely see reduced computer performance. This will likely cause everything on your computer to work more slowly. Download our free Security Suite by McAfee® software that will shield your computer from the latest security threats and learn more about Internet security.

Your computer’s hardware

The processor, hard drive, network card, graphics accelerator and even the amount of RAM impact the speed with which your computer can process Internet data. Upgrading your RAM is one of the easiest, least expensive ways to boost speed. In general, older computers will limit the speed you receive with your TWC, or any other, Internet service.

Your operating system

With extensive use, any computer operating system can become corrupt, inefficient or misconfigured, which will affect its speed. Upgrading to a major new release of your operating system may help. You can also try reinstalling your operating system. If you're unsure how to do this, call your computer manufacturer or work with a qualified consultant.