Apple Macs are among the best machines for creatives such as editing images and swapping out designs. But you also need to browse the web for inspiration when putting together an interior design project.
So here’s how to improve Mac web browsing speed for better work.
Downgrade the OS Version
New operating systems are constantly evolving. However, they often require far more resources than their predecessors. Therefore, when you upgrade, your machine might not be capable of handling the increased demand. So when your RAM and HDD have to work overtime, your browsing speed will suffer. But you can consider downgrading your macOS version to alleviate the pressure on your processor and other hardware. So always think carefully before upgrading to a new version, and check the requirements to see if your current machine can handle them.
Disable Automatic Downloads to Improve Mac Web Browsing
When automatic downloads are in progress, they will use almost 100% of your bandwidth. You can disable them to prevent this when you are working in four easy steps:
- From the Apple menu, choose “System Preferences.”
- Click “Software Update” after that. Click the “Lock” button at the bottom left.
- To make changes, you’ll need to enter your administrative password.
- Remove the check mark next to “Download new updates in the background.”
If the box next to “Automatically download apps bought on other Macs” is checked, you can uncheck it. Now you should have uninterrupted browsing unless you manually download.
Downgrade the Wi-Fi Standard
Newer Mac operating systems can use the 802.11n standard, which provides the greatest bandwidth. But this can cause issues. Fortunately, if the Wi-Fi isn’t set up for 802.11n, the computer will switch to an older standard, like 802.11a or 802.11b. You can also choose a configuration for the router that uses two channels if this is available. This lets the router use multiple frequencies at the same time. This can be helpful in a busy place where Wi-Fi signals overlap. The router can pick the best frequency with the lowest number of interference.
Find a Strong Wi-Fi Spot
Your signal is often affected by where you are. Check the Wi-Fi signal strength marker in the right-hand corner of the desktop of your Mac. When you connect to a wireless system on a Mac, it should include a dot at the bottom and three bars. If there are less than three bars, your computer isn’t really close enough to the Wi-Fi signal or wireless router. Or a wall or metal object is blocking the signal. Just keep moving the Wi-Fi access point or your laptop until the signal strength is at its highest. Often this only needs to be a few inches or feet in the room.
Follow Up-to-Date Cyber Security Advice
Cybersecurity means defending yourself against malware and hackers. This includes things like virus infections, malware, and webcam recording. Any of these will cause a slower machine and browsing as your laptop becomes infected. Here are some easy cybersecurity steps:
- Make sure your software and hardware firmware are up to date.
- Use anti-virus software, antimalware, and firewalls.
- Use a passcode manager to make strong passwords for sites that are important to you.
- Use a VPN for anything that could make your personal information public.
- Be cautious about who you let use your Wi-Fi and home office network.
Using just one of these tips makes your Mac much safer and will help keep your browser running well. However, using all of them will protect your device against anyone that wishes to damage your computer, life, or reputation. So stay vigilant and keep up to date.
Contact Your ISP for an Upgrade
You should talk to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to find out how to get more bandwidth. This will often mean an upgrade of your service. But you can ask for a discount or threaten to switch providers. Talk to certain other ISPs to see what they might be able to do if your ISP isn’t willing to listen to your ideas. Then go back to your current ISP and let them know. Because of things like fiber optic internet and competition between service providers, you may be able to get better speeds for the same price or less if they want to keep you as a customer.
Try Different Web Browsers
There are many web browsers you can use these days. Available browsers include Firefox, Chrome, and Safari, which is the most popular among Mac users. However, these all have different functions and features, and some can hinder or speed up performance. For example, some handle extensions better than others. And often, you will need to clear the history and cache for optimal performance. So try each browser for a while to see which one is right for you. It could just be a case of your current browser not living up to your actual needs when working.
Improve Mac Web Browsing Speed Using Ethernet Instead of Wi-Fi
When you use Wi-Fi, you and other people share the bandwidth. Lead walls, for example, can mess up the signal. But if you connect with Ethernet, you can get full web browsing speed. If you can’t get the full signal strength with Wi-Fi or you think there’s a lot of interruption on the Wi-Fi network, you can connect your Mac to the network with an Ethernet cable. Most devices include at least one Ethernet port that a computer can plug into. If you find that this isn’t faster, which is unlikely, you can always turn it off and use your Wi-Fi connection again when you are alone.
Stay Away from Malicious Sites
Accessing certain sites can potentially infect your Mac or browser with harmful code. These can be viruses, malware, and spyware. If you have any of these, you will notice a significant drop in performance, and you might get crashes. Often these come from malicious sites such as adult entertainment, criminal forums, and illegal torrent sites. Any good antimalware package will alert you to these. So do yourself a favor and try not to access them to avoid any problems. Otherwise, you may have a constant battle on your hands as you fight off incoming malware.
Summary
It’s relatively simple to improve Mac web browsing speed. You can consider downgrading your OS version, staying safe with cybersecurity, and try not to use sites with malicious code.
Header Image Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash
