Cox subscribers are asking “Does Cox throttle internet speed?” after experiencing slower than usual internet speeds.
Cox is one of the most popular service providers in the country but recently there are some concerns about the network intentionally reducing speeds.
Is Cox internet throttling just a myth or is it a way to keep subscribers within their plans? Let’s find out.
Cox is known for throttling internet speed in neighborhoods with excessive bandwidth usage. Users say that even people who paid so much for unrestricted service are suffering from severely slow internet.
Can Cox Reduce Internet Speeds? Is This Possible?
People who have experienced Cox internet slower than advertised are debating if the network is indeed reducing their speeds.
Although there is no evidence of Cox internet throttling, there are some subscribers who claim this.
Note: According to reports, Cox Communications has started ISP throttling in communities deeming that there was “excessive usage” even for those who paid extra for unrestricted internet.
How To Find Out If Your Connection Is Affected
Not only is a slow internet connection a nuisance but it’s also very annoying especially when you’ve paid extra to get faster, unlimited data.
But is it possible to find out if your connection is being throttled? Is your service affected by a data cap?
With these techniques, you can find out if your ISP is purposely reducing your speeds.
Conduct Speed Testing
If you’re with Cox, you can find out if Cox internet throttling is happening when you conduct testing.
There are many test services offered for free online but one of the most frequently used is the Google Speed testing service. You can do this even with unlimited data.
Step #1. Open a browser (Chrome and Google are preferred)
Start by choosing a browser and opening it. We recommend Google or Chrome but you may also use other browsers.
Step #2. Type in “Speed Test by Google”
On the search bar, go to Google speed testing. You may also use other testing sites to verify Google’s results.
Step #3. Start the test
Begin the test by clicking “Run Speed Test” on the page. A popup page will appear and a digital gauge that will show you how fast or how slow your speeds are.
The first number is your download speeds, and the second number (a lower number) is your upload speeds. After the test, a summary of your upload speeds and download speeds will be provided.
Screenshot the results and save them for later. Check your Cox internet connection subscription and compare the difference.
Use A Reliable VPN
VPNs or virtual private networks is a service that helps protects your internet usage from your provider or ISP and prevents data cap.
It also helps you avoid ISP throttling and lets you use the web safely and at the best speeds.
VPNs are used by heavy internet users to prevent slow speeds and avoid DNS traffic.
Here’s how to start using a VPN:
1. Use A Free VPN Service
There are many free VPN services available like
- ProtonVPN Free
- Windscribe
- Hotspot Shield Free VPN
Simply create an account from any of these free VPN sites and sign in. Follow the prompts to start using the VPN and stop ISP throttling.
2. Use A Paid VPN Service
There are also paid VPN services you can take advantage of. Some of these offer free trial periods.
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
- NordVPN
Beware, after the free trial is over, you will be charged regular rates for using any of these free VPN services.
3. Use a VPN every time you browse the web.
You have an option to turn on or off a VPN subscription. Turn the VPN on when you want uninterrupted fast speeds especially when you want to stream content and play online games.
Repeat Speed Testing
Once you’re in a VPN, conduct another testing to check your network speed. If your speed remains, then there is no throttling.
But if your speed has significantly increased then Cox internet throttling or a data cap has been placed on your internet service.
To make the testing credible, use the same testing app or site. Run the speed test and screenshot the results to compare with earlier testing. Test speeds during different times of the day to check for network congestion.
How to Fix Cox Connection Throttling
Now that you’ve confirmed that your provider is slowing down your connection, consider the following to fix slow download speeds and data throttling.
Monitor Data Usage
According to a Cox subscriber, the network throttles speed to control usage speeds. So, to avoid this, manage your data usage by scheduling your online activities even if you’re using unlimited data.
Prefer to stream content and play games during times when only a few people (or only you) are using the connection.
Use A Good VPN Service
Rely on a powerful VPN service to protect your internet connection from bandwidth throttling.
Use the VPN service whenever you want to make the most of your speed such as streaming video, games, podcasts, movies, and other online content.
Use a VPN to protect your searches and keep your browsing hidden from your ISP.
Start Fresh With A New Internet Provider
If you feel that you’re not getting what you paid for with Cox, you can always get the service of another provider, a provider that can give you unlimited data.
Consider the following:
- How much data you need for a month? This determines the gigabit speeds.
- How many excessive users are there in your home?
- What’s your internet monthly usage?
- Do you watch streaming media?
And even if you take another ISP, check your speeds and compare constantly to get the best value out of your money.
Facts About Cox Internet Service
Cox internet is available only from selected locations. To find out if you’re covered by Cox, visit their official site and check your service location.
Cox plans are customizable which means you can set up an internet plan or a bundled plan with internet, TV and streaming, smart home and security, and home phone.
Cox has a variety of internet plans with the Gigablast up to 940 Mbps at $99.99 a month. However, data throttling may occur which may reduce your connection speeds.
Read Next: How to Downgrade Cox Internet Service?
Conclusion
Does Cox throttle internet speed? Subscribers say that Cox reduces subscribers’ speeds saying that it may be due to excessive bandwidth usage.
This applies to users who use a lot of bandwidth than what Cox supplies. That way, Cox is right in its own place.
Despite Cox still being unable to confirm bandwidth throttling speeds, Cox subscribers must learn how to determine if their speeds are indeed being manipulated.
Also, users need to make the necessary steps to manage their data usage to prevent bandwidth throttling even with unlimited data.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.