Wi-Fi explained

Grow your knowledge so you can make your Wi-Fi work for you.

Speeds explained
Performance tips
Your Wi-Fi App

Different types of speed

Over Sprout’s 100% fiber optic network, data can travel at the speed of light! It also enables us to give you symmetrical speeds, meaning the upload speed is the same as the download.

This is important for activities like gaming, video calls, and uploading pictures and documents, offering a far smoother experience than you might have with other internet technologies, which often offer high download speeds and minimal upload speed.

All Sprout plans list the maximum speed you’ll receive via a wired connection using an ethernet cable. Your speed could be less if your device is connected via via Wi-Fi. Since most devices will be connected to the internet wirelessly, understanding how Wi-Fi works is important to having the best internet experience. Read on for our expert tips and tricks!

Factors that affect your Wi-Fi speeds

The speeds you get on a device that is connected to Wi-Fi will vary. Typically, there are three main causes for a sluggish speed over Wi-Fi:

  1. The quality of the Wi-Fi signal (lots of devices need lots of strong Wi-Fi)
  2. The settings and limitations of the technology in your device (some devices were not designed for today’s technology)
  3. The reach of the Wi-Fi signal (device distance from the signal)
Get tech support help
Upgrade your Wi-Fi service

The Wi-Fi router used can enhance (or limit) the wireless signal’s quality. Your Sprout service includes a Wi-Fi router at no additional charge. It works great for most homes and everyday use, with other options available for larger spaces or more advanced Wi-Fi needs, including outdoor Wi-Fi.

During installation, your Sprout technician will work with you to find the optimal location to install our equipment. Usually, this is in the center of the home and away from obstructions. Depending on the size of your home, your technician may recommend a more powerful router or a custom mesh system to ensure the Wi-Fi signal reaches every room.

Have you noticed a weak Wi-Fi signal in certain areas of your home? Signal interference from certain building materials like brick, metal, and glass. Even some appliances like microwaves can affect the connection or cause the signal to stall.

The more devices active on your Wi-Fi network at once, the less bandwidth there is to go around. That’s why we offer three package options. Select a package that offers enough speed for everything you want to connect.

Each device in your home—such as your PC, mobile phone, gaming console, or TV—has a network card with speed limitations. Some devices, especially older ones, may not be able to handle the max speed you have subscribed to. Also, the type of Wi-Fi radio (2, 4, 5, or 6 GHz) in your device can dramatically impact Wi-Fi. Check your device’s Wi-Fi specifications to see what is supported, and whether you need to upgrade for faster performance.

If you choose not to use the provided Sprout router, please contact tech support to have your router approved and noted on your account. This is part of our network security protocol. Be advised that our tech support team will be unable to troubleshoot Wi-Fi connectivity issues on non-Sprout-provided equipment. We will only be able to verify that our service is working at the Sprout ONT/fibner modem.

How to improve your Wi-Fi performance

Extend or enhance your coverage

Sprout offers Enhanced Residential Wi-Fi for an additional charge per month. This is an ideal solution for large homes (between 1,500 and 3,000 sq. ft.) or homes that have non-standard configurations or construction. This option is recommended when our standard Sprout router does not provide adequate cover for your home.

And, if you want your Wi-Fi to extend beyond the home to your porch, patio, pool, even down by the dock, we offer custom outdoor Wi-Fi solutions.

Add to your Wi-Fi coverage

Test your speeds

The most accurate speed test is on a hardwired, ethernet connection to a newer model PC. Older devices, gaming systems, and any Wi-Fi connected device will likely not reflect the max speeds capable of your Sprout service.

When checking your speeds, we recommend using the Wi-Fi app, which tests the speed at the Wi-Fi router or by visiting www.speedtest.net. For more information check out their FAQs.

Run a speed test

Wi-Fi support articles

Here are a few resources that will help you better understand your home Wi-Fi.