Telecommunications Technician how-to

How to Troubleshoot Slow Internet

Isolate whether the problem is the network, equipment or home.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Isolate whether the problem is the network, equipment or home. In short: test; check; inspect, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Test speed wired to the modem or router.

  2. Check signal levels or light levels.

  3. Inspect connectors and cables.

  4. Check router settings and Wi-Fi interference.

  5. Replace faulty equipment.

  6. Retest and explain the fix.

Safety reminders for telecommunications technicians

  • Use ladder safety and fall protection
  • Never look into active fiber
  • Dispose of fiber scraps safely
  • Watch for electrical hazards

Fiber optic cable · Splice · Fusion splicer · OTDR · Coax · ONT: see the full telecommunications technician glossary.

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