Wi-Fi isn't a luxury, but an essential part of our everyday lives. It's no longer a minor inconvenience when your internet connection randomly cuts out during a virtual work call or TV show, or while you're completing your taxes online.
Last year, CNET's broadband survey found that home internet prices continue to increase. At the time of the survey, US adults paid, on average, $195 more than in 2024, and 51% of those who saw bill increases still had unreliable internet.
Despite the high cost of internet service, CNET recently found that 86% of US adults experience Wi-Fi signal drops or disconnections. Even worse, nearly 1 in 5 (19%) have ongoing Wi-Fi problems, sometimes on a daily basis.
CNET's broadband expert, Joe Supan, says more US adults experience problems with their Wi-Fi than he would have expected. Internet service providers have made significant improvements to their systems over the last few years, but one essential factor could still be keeping you from a stable connection: your router.
CNET Survey key takeaways
86% of adults have experienced a Wi-Fi signal drop or disconnection.
19% report experiencing Wi-Fi signal drops always, daily or frequently.
78% of US adults' activities are affected by Wi-Fi performance.
Nearly half (46%) of adults experience streaming issues due to poor Wi-Fi performance at home.
Most US adults have experienced Wi-Fi disconnections or signal drops
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