Internet Slowdown After Filtering

1 Run Speed Tests

1. Temporarily disable filtering (change DNS back to automatic)
2. Visit fast.com or speedtest.net
3. Record: Download, Upload, Ping/Latency
4. Re-enable filtering (restore DNS settings)
5. Run the same test again
6. Compare results

2 Identify the Cause

Most slowdowns have nothing to do with filtering. Common culprits:

Network Congestion (Not Filtering)

• Too many devices connected simultaneously
• Someone streaming 4K video or gaming
• Background updates/backups running
• Test: Disconnect other devices. Speed improve? Not filtering's fault.

ISP Issues (Not Filtering)

• ISP-side congestion during peak hours
• Service outages or degradation
• Oversubscribed neighborhood network
• Test: Disable filtering. Still slow? Call ISP.

Router Problems (Not Filtering)

• Old router can't handle your internet speed
• Router overheating or failing
• Outdated firmware with bugs
• Test: Connect computer directly to modem with Ethernet. Faster? Router issue.

Actual Filtering Issues (Rare)

• Distant DNS server location
• DNS server overloaded/having issues
• Too many DNS lookups (misconfiguration)

If It's Actually DNS Filtering:

Switch to Faster DNS Servers

Different providers have different server locations:

Use DNS Caching

Reduce repeated lookups by enabling DNS caching on your router:

1. Log into router admin panel
2. Look for "DNS Proxy" or "DNS Caching" option
3. Enable it if available
4. Set cache time to 3600 seconds (1 hour)

Optimize DNS Configuration

1. Use only 2 DNS servers (primary + secondary), not 3-4
2. Choose servers from same provider (don't mix OpenDNS + CleanBrowsing)
3. Test individual servers and use the fastest one as primary

Test Server Latency

Find which DNS server is fastest from your location:

ping 208.67.222.123
ping 185.228.168.168
ping 1.1.1.3

Use the one with lowest ping time as your primary DNS.

If It's Router-Related:

Update Router Firmware

1. Log into router admin
2. Navigate to System or Administration
3. Check for firmware updates
4. Update if available (improves performance + security)

Restart Router Properly

1. Unplug router AND modem from power
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug in modem, wait for all lights to stabilize (2 min)
4. Plug in router, wait for all lights to stabilize (2 min)
5. Test speeds again

Check Router Resources

Some routers show resource usage:

• CPU usage >80%? Too many devices or old router
• Memory >90%? Reboot router or upgrade
• Check temperature - overheating causes slowdowns

Upgrade Router (If Necessary)

Signs you need a new router:

• Router is 5+ years old
• Your internet speed exceeds router's rated speed
• You have 15+ connected devices
• Router doesn't support AC or AX WiFi standards

Recommended: $80-150 router with AC1900+ or AX1800+ for most homes. See our router recommendations.

If It's Software Filtering (Not DNS):

Filtering Software Can Impact Performance

Software like Qustodio, Net Nanny, Bark runs on each device:

• Uses 1-5% CPU constantly
• Can slow older devices significantly
• May conflict with other security software

Optimization Steps:

1. Update software: Newer versions are more efficient
2. Reduce monitoring frequency: Check settings for "scan interval"
3. Exclude trusted sites: Add known-safe sites to whitelist
4. Uninstall conflicting software: Don't run multiple antivirus/filtering apps

Consider Hybrid Approach:

Reduce software filtering load:

• Use DNS filtering for network-wide blocking
• Reserve software filtering only for critical devices
• Use built-in device controls (Screen Time, Family Link) instead of 3rd-party apps