[In car trouble] 7 ways that help you boost your Internet speed

Reasons why the Internet fails while you’re in your car

There have been numerous innovations in regards to infrastructure. However, it’s still not enough for Internet service providers to make Internet access seamless for customers.

Aside from dead zones, plain poor Internet connectivity is the main reason for slow Internet connectivity.

There have been numerous innovations in regards to infrastructure

Whether you’re in your home or in an enclosed space (like a car), you will most likely experience inconvenience under any of the two circumstances.

But the good news is that there are still ways you can attempt to get a better Internet connection. Philkotse.com prepared some of the best ways that have been proven effective in most situations:

1. Get rid of the phone case

Anybody who knows the difference between phones knows why there are more expensive brands than others. One of their biggest similarities, however, is the fact that modern smartphones come with internal antennas now.

When it comes to aesthetics and convenience, this is actually a plus point. But in terms of reception, it’s just not the way it used to be.

If your Internet connection is a bit off, it’s better to remove your phone case

So with that said, putting a case on a phone that’s already suffering from poor Internet connection is like adding another coat of restriction to its signal receptors. That’s why in cases where your Internet connection is a bit off, it’s better to remove your phone case.

>>> If you need: 3 best wireless phone charging car mounts in the market

2. Get your hotspot or device in a different spot

While driving in the car, your position will, of course, change from one location to another. This can result in poor Internet reception, depending on the local cellular coverage in the area you’re currently in.

While there isn’t a lot that you can do about this, you can still try and get a better connection by moving your phone from one spot to another while in the car.

Poor Internet reception depends on the local cellular coverage in the area you’re currently in

If you like to keep your phone in the center console or glove compartment, you can give it better access to exposure by using a phone holder. This should be able to help you out while you’re still in that Internet-restricted area.

>>> Suggested for you: [Philkotse guide] Simple ways to get Wifi in your car

3. Try out speed-boosting apps

With all the techy inventions today, who would have thought that there could be apps to boost your Internet speed?

Although let’s face it, most of these apps do nothing and just fool you for your time. But there are exceptions, however, that are actually worth trying. A specific tip is applicable for rooted Android phones.

You can try installing an app that can modify the device’s TCP/Ip settings

If you have one, you can try installing an app that can modify the device’s TCP/Ip settings. This should be able to improve your device’s Internet connection speed.

But if the problem is with Internet service providers, this will most likely not bring you any improvements. You can still try this option if you think it’s worth the try.

>>> Relevant article: [Philkotse pick] Check out for top 10 best Android auto apps

4. Trade-in quantity for quality

If your service provider is capable of handling 4G data and your device supports it, it may seem wrong to shut it off.

But if you do, you may actually end up with a slower Internet connection that’s more solid. This is highly applicable in areas where 4G is supported but not entirely.

You may actually end up with a slower Internet connection that’s more solid

The reason is that there are service providers that set up minimal infrastructure in areas where there are too many 4G users.

If you are only using the Internet for activities like music-streaming and social media, it may be better to switch to 3G.

5. Upgrade Your Device

Contrary to the first advice, the problem may also be your device. If your phone is starting to get too old, it may not be as responsive as it was before. You may ultimately need a phone upgrade that will give you faster service.

You don’t need to spend tens of thousands of pesos just for a fast phone. You can get reliable ones for half the price.

If you don’t have the money to pay for the device right away, you can consult the help of financial institutions like FlexiFinance and HomeCredit. Just make sure you’re financially prepared and capable of paying for the device in the long run.

You may ultimately need a phone upgrade that will give you faster service

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6. Switch to a different service provider

Sometimes the hard-to-swallow truth is that your carrier is the one at fault. If their local cellular infrastructure isn’t able to satisfy the needs of the users, your best bet is to switch to a better service provider.

There are cases, especially in the Philippines, where some service carriers are more reliable than others in specific areas.

If their local cellular infrastructure isn’t able, it's best to switch to a better service provider

This means that if Provider X was the most reliable Internet provider while you’re in the city, it might not be so dependable when in a different area.

Sometimes, switching from a big-time service provider to a smaller company with less congestion will solve your problem.

>>> Here is your solution: Top 3 Wi-fi devices to keep your car connected on the road

7. Use a cellphone signal booster

Cell phone signal boosters are devices that are supposed to do exactly what it’s named for – to boost your phone’s signal reception. This usually comes with an antenna that needs to be mounted out of the vehicle.

Use a cellphone signal booster

This also includes a base station and an antenna that’s supposed to be put inside your car. Although these don’t always work, they’re worth the try if you’re desperate enough.