Upload speed makes a big difference for video calls, file transfers, and cloud backups. If yours is too slow, it can throw a wrench into your work. Understanding speed vs. bandwidth can also help you get the most out of your connection. We’ll look at how to increase upload speed with simple fixes and advanced solutions.

We’ll also discuss:

• What affects upload speed and why it might be slow
• How to increase upload speed with simple troubleshooting steps
• Advanced solutions for businesses and power users

What affects upload speed?

Upload speed depends on multiple factors, including network configuration, ISP limitations, and congestion. At Meter, we analyze network performance to identify common causes of slow uploads.

Internet plan limitations

Many internet plans are built for streaming and web browsing, leaving upload speeds in the dust. If you're stuck with a plan that caps uploads at a snail’s pace, there’s not much you can do—except upgrade. Check your provider’s fine print or see why asymmetrical internet often has upload speeds getting the short end of the stick.

Network congestion

Ever tried squeezing through a packed subway during rush hour? That’s your network when too many devices are competing for bandwidth. Video calls, file backups, and gaming all demand a slice of the upload pie. Things get even worse during peak hours when your neighbors are also online. If everything crawls to a stop, reducing device load or scheduling uploads for off-peak times can help.

Outdated hardware

That decade-old router might still blink reassuringly, but it’s probably slowing you down. Newer models support faster upload speeds, better Wi-Fi coverage, and fewer connection hiccups. If your router predates Wi-Fi 6 or can’t handle gigabit speeds, upgrading might be the simplest way to boost performance. Think of it as retiring an old flip phone—sure, it works, but it’s not keeping up with today’s needs.

Background processes

Your computer and other devices may be quietly hogging bandwidth without you realizing it. Cloud backups, automatic software updates, and sneaky background apps love to siphon off upload speed.

Before sending large files, check for any bandwidth-hungry apps running in the background. Shutting down unnecessary processes is like clearing the runway before takeoff—your uploads will move faster with nothing in their way.

ISP throttling

If your upload speed drops at certain times or with specific activities, your internet provider might be slowing you down on purpose. ISPs sometimes limit speeds based on usage patterns, especially for data-heavy tasks like cloud storage and large file transfers.

What’s considered a good upload speed?

How much upload speed you need will depend on what you’re doing online. Sending emails? You won’t need much. Running a business with cloud backups and constant file transfers? That’s a different story.

A good rule of thumb for upload speed:

• Everyday browsing and emails: 3 Mbps is usually enough.
• Video calls, cloud backups, and light streaming: Aim for 5–10 Mbps.
• Large file transfers and high-resolution streaming: At least 10–25 Mbps.
• Businesses with multiple users and cloud-heavy workflows: 25 Mbps or more.

If your upload speed feels sluggish, you’re probably dealing with an asymmetrical internet plan—most ISPs give far more bandwidth to downloads than uploads. Fiber internet solves this by offering equal speeds for both, which is excellent for remote teams and businesses.

How can I check my upload speed?

The easiest way is to run a speed test. If you have a Meter network, then the Meter speed test gives a real-time look at your upload and download speeds. Testing at different times of the day can help spot patterns. If your uploads crawl in the evening but pick up late at night, you might be dealing with congestion or ISP throttling.

Quick fixes for how to increase upload speed

When uploads slow to a crawl, a few quick tweaks might get things moving again. These fixes won’t turn a sluggish connection into a high-speed pipeline, but they can help squeeze the most out of what you’ve got.

1. Check your internet plan

Some internet plans treat upload speed as an afterthought. If your provider gives you a fast download speed but barely any upload bandwidth, no amount of troubleshooting will fix that.

Check your plan details—if your upload speed is stuck in the slow lane, an upgrade might be the only real solution.

You can compare setups by taking a look at different business internet speeds.

2. Restart your router and modem

It’s the classic IT fix—turn it off and on again. But in this case, it actually works. Restarting clears out memory issues, refreshes your connection, and forces your ISP to assign a new connection path. Just make sure you unplug your modem and router for at least a minute before turning them back on.

3. Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not always reliable for uploads. Walls, other devices, and even your neighbor’s router can interfere with your signal. If you need a stable connection, plug in an ethernet cable. A wired setup gives you a direct line to your network, cutting out interference and delivering better upload performance.

4. Limit network usage

If multiple devices are streaming, gaming, or syncing files, your upload speed gets squeezed. Large file transfers and video calls don’t mix well with someone binging 4K movies in the next room. If you’re trying to upload something important, pause other bandwidth-heavy tasks for a while.

5. Change DNS settings

Your DNS (Domain Name System) settings control how fast your device finds websites, but they don’t directly change upload speeds. However, switching to a faster DNS service—like Google DNS or OpenDNS—can speed up cloud-based services and reduce delays when connecting to remote servers.

Advanced ways on how to increase internet upload speed

If the quick fixes didn’t do the trick, it’s time to dig a little deeper. These methods require more effort but can make a real difference.

1. Upgrade your router or modem

Old networking gear can choke your upload speeds. Many older routers weren’t built to handle modern internet speeds, and if yours is more than five years old, it might be holding you back.

Newer models support Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit ethernet, and better traffic management, all of which can help move data faster. Just remember—if your internet plan has a low upload cap, even the best router won’t magically fix that.

2. Adjust QoS settings on your router

Most routers let you control which types of traffic get priority. Quality of Service (QoS) settings help make sure your video calls and file uploads don’t get drowned out by someone else’s Netflix binge. Some routers let you prioritize specific apps, while others work on a per-device basis. If your router has QoS settings, tweaking them can help keep uploads running at full speed.

3. Update your internet drivers and firmware

Routers and computers rely on software to manage network connections, and when that software is outdated, performance can take a hit. Manufacturers release updates to fix bugs, improve speed, and keep things running securely.

If your upload speed has been lagging, check your router’s settings and your computer’s network adapter for available updates. It’s a simple step that many people overlook.

4. Switch to a less congested Wi-Fi channel

If your Wi-Fi is struggling, nearby networks might be interfering with your signal. This is common in apartment buildings or office spaces where multiple routers fight for the same airwaves.

Most routers default to the same few channels, but tools like Wi-Fi analyzers can help you find a less crowded one. If you have a dual-band router, switching to the 5 GHz band instead of 2.4 GHz can also help—it handles interference better, though it doesn’t travel as far.

5. Contact your internet service provider for better service

Sometimes, the only real fix is upgrading your plan. Many ISPs offer high-speed packages with better upload speeds, but they don’t always advertise them prominently. If your uploads feel sluggish no matter what you do, call your provider and ask if they offer faster options. If they don’t—or if they’re throttling your speeds—it might be time to shop around for a better ISP.

Troubleshooting slow upload speeds

If your upload speed is crawling and none of the quick fixes helped, it’s time to dig into the possible culprits. Here’s a breakdown of common issues and what you can do about them.

ISP speed limits

Sometimes, your internet provider simply isn’t giving you the speed you need. Many lower-tier plans come with painfully slow upload speeds, and no amount of troubleshooting will change that. If you’re maxing out your available bandwidth, upgrading your plan or switching providers might be your only real solution.

Check your plan details and see if your ISP offers a faster option. If not, it may be time to shop around.

Network congestion

Ever notice your upload speed tanking at the worst times—like right when you’re sending a big file or hopping on an important video call? If multiple devices are streaming, gaming, or backing up files, your uploads get squeezed. Things get even worse during peak hours when everyone in your neighborhood is online.

Pause unnecessary downloads, schedule large uploads for off-peak hours, or (politely) ask your housemates to stop hogging the bandwidth.

Weak Wi-Fi signal

Wi-Fi is great when it works, but walls, distance, and interference from other electronics can mess with your connection. If your upload speed drops as you move farther from the router, a weak signal might be the problem.

For the best results, use a wired ethernet connection. If that’s not an option, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can help cover dead zones.

Router bottleneck

Not all routers are built for high-speed uploads. If yours is old or doesn’t support Wi-Fi 6 or Gigabit ethernet, it could be slowing you down. Even if your internet plan promises great speeds, outdated hardware can keep you stuck in the slow lane.

Check if your router supports high upload speeds. If it’s more than five years old, upgrading to a newer model could make a difference.

Slow speeds on all devices

If everything on your network is struggling to upload—even your wired connections—then the issue might not be on your end. Your ISP could be dealing with temporary congestion, maintenance, or outages.

Restart your modem and router first. If speeds are still sluggish, check your ISP’s status page or contact support to see if they’re experiencing issues.

ISP throttling

If your upload speed is fine for basic tasks but suddenly drops when you try to upload large files or use cloud storage, your ISP might be limiting certain types of traffic. Some providers throttle uploads based on data usage or time of day.

A VPN may help by masking your traffic, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. If your ISP has strict upload speed limits, switching to a better provider may be your only real option.

How Meter helps businesses improve network performance and speed

A slow or unreliable network is annoying and can disrupt work, delay projects, and create endless headaches for IT teams. That’s why we built Meter, a fully managed networking solution designed to keep businesses connected without the usual burden.

Enterprise-grade networking for high-speed uploads and downloads

Uploading large files, hosting video calls, or running cloud applications? That’s where network bottlenecks usually hit the hardest. Meter builds networks that prioritize stability and speed, so businesses don’t have to deal with lag, dropped connections, or slow uploads when it matters most. Our access points, switches, and security appliances work together to keep performance consistent—even during peak hours.

Managed network services

Most networks need constant attention. Firmware updates, troubleshooting, performance tuning—it all takes time. Meter handles it for you, monitoring your network 24/7 and making adjustments behind the scenes to keep everything running at full speed. If something goes wrong, we fix it before you even notice. No frantic IT tickets, no wasted hours rebooting routers.

Flexible pricing for every business

Unlike traditional setups that require huge upfront costs for hardware, Meter runs on an OpEx model—pricing is based on square footage, not expensive one-time purchases. Plus, when it’s time for an upgrade, we replace old equipment at no extra charge. That means you always have the latest hardware without surprise costs or drawn-out budget approvals.

Deep network insights

Meter’s dashboard gives businesses a clear, real-time view of their network. You can see who’s using the most bandwidth, monitor upload and download speeds, and troubleshoot issues—all without needing a networking degree. Want even more control? Use Meter Command to generate custom reports and manage your network with simple prompts.

Real-life business benefits

Companies that rely on cloud storage, remote work, and data-heavy applications see faster uploads, more stable connections, and fewer network-related IT issues with Meter. Our system scales with your business, so as your team grows, your network does too—without the usual stress of expanding infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

Does using ethernet increase upload speed?

Yes, a wired connection often boosts upload speed. Wires reduce interference and drop latency.

Can a VPN increase upload speed?

A VPN may hide throttling, but it can also lower speed. Test your connection with and without one.

Can my internet service provider limit my upload speed?

Yes, some ISPs cap upload speeds. Check your plan and run a speed test to see where it caps out.

Does changing DNS servers affect upload speed?

Yes, faster DNS servers can lower latency. They may help improve upload performance.

Why is my upload speed slower than my download speed?

Many plans offer lower upload speeds by design. ISPs focus on download capacity for most users.

Should I switch to fiber internet for better upload speeds?

Fiber usually provides higher upload speeds. Consider fiber if you need rapid uploads for work or business.

Say goodbye to slow uploads—get a Meter-managed network

Fast upload speed saves time and boosts productivity. We offer solutions that show you how to increase upload speed with practical steps. Our Meter-managed network covers installation, support, and upgrades under one service.

Key features of Meter Network include:

• Vertically integrated: Meter-built access points, switches, and security appliances work together to create a cohesive, stress-free network management experience.
• Managed Experience: Meter provides user support and done-with-you network management to reduce the burden on in-house networking teams.
• Hassle-free installation: Simply provide a floor plan, and Meter’s team will plan, install, and maintain your network.
• Software: Use Meter’s purpose-built dashboard for deep visibility and granular control of your network, or create custom dashboards with a prompt using Meter Command.
• OpEx pricing: Instead of investing upfront in equipment, Meter charges a simple monthly subscription fee based on your square footage. When it’s time to upgrade your network, Meter provides complimentary new equipment and installation.
• Easy migration and expansion: As you grow, Meter will expand your network with new hardware or entirely relocate your network to a new location free of charge.

To learn more, schedule a demo with Meter.