How to Increase File Transfer Speed Over WiFi

"I am trying to transfer large files over my WiFi, but the speed is painfully slow. If anyone knows how to increase file transfer speed over WiFi, please let me know!"

You would indeed have gone through the frustrations that a majority of users face, particularly regarding slow file transfer over WiFi. They may want to share files between their devices, back up some data, or work remotely. The need for instant, seamless file transfers has made slow WiFi a hindrance to productivity and proper data management. However, with some strategies, one can continually improve their WiFi speed, thus speeding up file transfer, saving them valuable time, and enhancing their efficiency.

This guide has all the most straightforward fixes and higher-end equipment upgrades that can assist in increasing the file transfer speeds over WiFi. Follow this step-by-step guide to troubleshoot, optimize your WiFi, and get full performance to make file transfer smooth and faster.

How Do I Know My WiFi Transfer Speed Is Slow

The first step to solving the problem is understanding what "slow" WiFi is. WiFi speeds vary based on the generation of WiFi technology your network uses, which can significantly impact performance:

• WiFi 6 (802.11ax): up to 9.6 Gbps
• WiFi 5 (802.11ac): Till 3.5 Gbps
• WiFi 4 (802.11n): up to 600 Mbps.
• WiFi 3 (802.11g): Up to 54 Mbps
• WiFi 2 (802.11b): up to 11 Mbps
• WiFi 1 (802.11a): up to 54 Mbps

If your file transfer speeds are below these values, you probably have a speed problem you may want to dig into. Use Internet-based tools like WiFi Analyzer or NetSpot on your local network to determine if your WiFi is working correctly. It will give you your present transfer rates so you can decide if they are lower than the average speeds mentioned above for your WiFi generation. 

Now, if you are ready, let's move to the tips below to increase your WiFi speed for file transfer. Also, don't forget to share this page online to help more WiFi users adjust their WiFi Speed effectively:

How to increase file transfer speed over WiFi

There are many ways to enhance file transfer speed over WiFi, including looking at different, more specific areas where bottlenecks usually arise. Try them one by one to see which makes the greatest difference.

#1. Move and Relocate Router

The physical location of your router is crucial to a good-performing WiFi. This can restrict the WiFi signal if placed in a low place behind walls or among other electronic devices. Hence, for the best performances:

Step 1: Position the router in a relatively central location in your house, ideally on a shelf or some other raised location.

Step 2: Do not put it near thick walls or metal objects that will block the signal.

By moving the router, you may find that your strength improves. Sometimes, you can even find increased file transfer speeds.

#2. Reboot Router and Reconnect WiFi

Sometimes, everything just needs a simple reset on WiFi. Routers store temporary files or minor bugs in the configuration that take years to develop and become sluggish.

Step 1: Unplug the router and wait for 10-15 seconds.

Step 2: Plug it back in and let it reboot.

Step 3: Reconnect your devices to WiFi and test file transfer speeds.

A quick reboot can solve temporary glitches and improve the performance of your network without further effort.

#3. Update Router Firmware

Outdated router firmware can also lead to reduced WiFi speed and performance. Manufacturers regularly release updates that enhance router stability, security, and speed.

Step 1: Open your web browser and type the IP address of your router in order to access your router's web interface.

Step 2: Locate the firmware update option, which is usually located under a section like "System," "Maintenance," or "Advanced."

Step 3: Update the firmware through prompts.

Updating firmware is crucial for performance and security, especially if your router is a few years old and hasn't been updated recently.

#4. Purchase and Change a New Router (WiFi 6 Router)

This means that an older router can simply be replaced by a WiFi 6 one, designed to provide faster speed, handle more devices perfectly, and maintain its range. A new router could make a gigantic difference in the file transferring speeds if your current is WiFi 4 or even just WiFi 5.

A new router purchase will typically consider the speed capabilities and the number of devices the router can support. And most importantly, whether your ISP supports it. WiFi 6 is a backward-compatible technology, ensuring that it will work just fine with older devices as it future-proofs the network.

#5. Adjust WiFi Bands

Most modern routers offer dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) or tri-band support (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and an extra 5 GHz or 6 GHz). The signal of 2.4 GHz will travel farther and be much slower. Meanwhile, the 5 GHz signal offers faster speeds with a very short range.

Step 1: First, access your router's settings via the web interface.

Step 2: Attempt to locate the settings for your WiFi band, then change over to a 5GHz band.

The speed is improved, but it switches on only when around 5 GHz range or 2.4GHz is better for long ranges or through walls.

#6. Change WiFi Channels

Interference due to neighboring networks would slow down WiFi speeds, mainly when multiple networks operate on the same channel. Most routers have automatic channel selection set as default, but a little manual research for a less interfered channel can improve speeds.

Step 1: Use the WiFi analyzer app to see which has the most minor interference.

Step 2: Open your router's settings and change the channel to the least busy one.

A more transparent channel reduces interference while the file transfer speed within densely populated areas with overlapping networks increases.

WiFi File Transfer Alternative Utility – Transfer Files in a Faster Way

EaseUS Todo PCTrans is a reliable solution that is powerful and easy to use. It makes the process of file transferring much more accessible for those usually required to transfer large file sizes or whose transfer rates are too slow. Its support for Wireless and Offline file transfer modes enables sending files between computers without ever relying on WiFi speed - which is very useful, especially if time is an issue since you need a sure way to transfer files quickly and safely.

EaseUS Todo PCTrans supports large file transfers and is optimized for speed, so it can be a lifesaver for people who often work with significant data volumes. This tool will ensure that your files transfer smoothly, bypassing the limitations of standard WiFi speed.

Step 1. Install and open EaseUS Todo PCTrans on both of your laptops.

Step 2. In the Data Transfer tab, set up the proper transfer direction:

• On old laptop, select "This is Old PC."
• On new laptop, select "This is New PC."

Step 3. Select "Transfer directly" on both laptops and click "Next" to continue. 

Step 4. On your new laptop, select "Network" and click "Next" to continue. This will automatically scan the old laptop. (Make sure the two PCs are connected to the same LAN.)

Step 5. Select the target laptop and click "Connect." Then, it will take some time to scan and analyze the data in old laptop.

Step 6. Finally, on the new PC, select the files you want to transfer. Then, click "Transfer" to start.

If you love a WiFi-based file transfer solution to transfer a huge amount of data between your computers, take EaseUS Todo PCTransfer for help. Also, don't forget to sharing this effective method online to help more of your friends master a WiFi + solution for fast file transfer between computers:

Conclusion

Various causes might lead to slow file transfer speeds via WiFi. These range from where you placed the router to old equipment. All of the steps above can systematically diagnose and correct the problems, with methods such as moving the router, updating the firmware, and adjusting the channels being noticeable improvements.

If these adjustments do not work, then EaseUS Todo PCTrans can be used, especially if huge files are to be transferred. This software provides a quick and hassle-free file transfer process, saving time and frustration.

FAQs to Improve Speed of File Transfer Over WiFi

Here are some FAQs on how to speed up the transfer of files over WiFi, address common problems, compare them with Ethernet, and give tips on improving the connection. The more you understand these concepts, the more noticeable the difference is in terms of file transfer efficiency and network performance in general.

WiFi file transfer versus Ethernet cable file transfer: which one is faster?

Generally, Ethernet is faster and more reliable than WiFi because of the cable connection, which avoids interference and does not change with distances, unlike the wireless connection.

Why is my WiFi transfer speed so slow?

Common causes include interference from other devices, router distance, outdated hardware, and network congestion. Checking these factors and adjusting your setup can improve speeds.

How do I change the bandwidth of my WiFi?

First, go to your settings on the router and find any options for "Channel Width" or "Bandwidth". Most routers allow users to change the 5GHz bands between 20, 40, and 80 MHz, all affecting the speed and stability of your connection.