Slow internet speeds can happen for several reasons. The first step is to determine what speeds you are actually receiving.

🔎 Step 1: Run a Speed Test

Go to Google and search “Speedtest.net” (or visit speedtest.net directly). Run a test and note your:

• Download speed

• Upload speed

• Ping (latency)

Because Nomad Internet operates on cellular networks, speeds may vary throughout the day. Towers experience higher usage during peak times, typically:

• Early mornings (before work and school)

• Evenings (after work and school hours)

We recommend running multiple speed tests at different times of the day and noting the results. This helps identify whether slow speeds are consistent or tied to peak network congestion.

📊 What Speeds Do You Actually Need?

A common misconception is that speeds under 10 Mbps are unusable. In many cases, that’s not true — it depends on what you’re doing online.

Here are general usage guidelines:

Basic Activities

• Web browsing: 2 Mbps minimum

• Streaming music: 0.5 Mbps minimum

• Online gaming: 3 Mbps minimum

Streaming Video

• Netflix:

  • HD: 5 Mbps

  • 4K: 25 Mbps

• Hulu:

  • HD: 3 Mbps

  • 4K: 16 Mbps

• Disney+:

  • HD: 5–10 Mbps

  • 4K: 25 Mbps

• HBO: 5 Mbps

• YouTube:

  • HD: 5 Mbps

  • 4K: 20 Mbps

Video Calls

• Zoom (1-on-1): 8 Mbps upload & download

• Zoom (group calls):

  • 2.5 Mbps download

  • 3 Mbps upload

If multiple devices are streaming or gaming at the same time, total bandwidth needs increase.

📍 Step 2: Check Modem Placement

Placement plays a major role in performance.

For best results:

• Place the modem near a window

• Elevate it off the floor

• Avoid metal surfaces or enclosed cabinets

• Keep it away from thick walls and appliances

Small placement changes can significantly improve signal quality.

📡 Important: Cell Boosters May Reduce Performance

Although it may seem helpful, traditional cell signal boosters often do not work well with Nomad modems and can actually reduce speed or cause disconnections.

Why?

Nomad modems are designed to connect directly to nearby towers on specific frequencies. Cell boosters amplify a wide range of signals — including frequencies the modem does not use. These extra amplified signals can create “noise,” which may:

• Degrade speeds

• Cause instability

• Trigger disconnects

This is especially common in RV parks, where multiple boosters may be operating nearby and creating interference.

We generally recommend optimizing placement before using any signal amplification equipment.