Why is my upload speed so slow?
Upload is often much lower than download by design, especially on cable and DSL plans. If it is lower than your plan promises, the usual causes are background uploads, weak Wi-Fi, a busy connection or old equipment.
First, is it normal?
Many plans give far more download than upload, because most people download more than they send. Fibre plans are often more balanced. Check what your plan lists for upload. If your result is close to that, nothing is wrong. See download vs upload speed.
Fixable causes
- Something is uploading. Cloud backups, photo sync and file sharing use the upload side. Pause them and test again.
- Weak Wi-Fi. Test next to the router, and on a cable if you can.
- A busy line. When upload is full, everything else lags. See bufferbloat.
- Old equipment. An old modem or router can cap speeds.
- A VPN. It can lower upload too. See does a VPN slow down your internet.
Check it step by step
- Pause backups and uploads on all devices.
- Run the SpeedUp test next to the router.
- Run it again on a cable.
- Compare upload with your plan.
If it is still far below your plan
Restart the modem and router, then test again. If the cable result stays far below your plan, contact your provider with the numbers. See why it is slower than you pay for.
How much do you need?
Video calls need a few Mbps per person, according to Zoom and Microsoft, and cloud backups use as much as you have. The numbers are in the video calls guide.