That stretch of time right after Christmas and before the New Year always seems to trigger a sudden urge to refresh, reset, or purge before the first day of January arrives. Most of us are inspired to attempt a year-end cleanup. Maybe you tackle the garage. Maybe you finally sort the junk drawer. Maybe you make a brave attempt at the closet you’ve been ignoring since spring. But, in my opinion, there’s one area almost everyone forgets: our digital lives.
Technology has impacted every part of our lives—from work and school to entertainment and healthcare. Yet, just like that junk drawer full of old charging cables, your network accumulates digital clutter that subtly slows down your internet, drains your speed, and opens the door to security risks.
At United, we hear this all the time. Customers call in thinking their internet is slowing down, and many times the issue isn’t the internet at all. It’s the digital clutter hiding behind the scenes.
That’s why we’re offering tips to help you create a fresh digital start that can give you faster speeds, fewer headaches, and a more secure setup heading into 2026. Whether you are running a business that needs reliable internet for transactions or just settling in to watch a movie at home, a few key steps can streamline and simplify your digital life.
Our Top 3 Digital Declutter Tips for Residential Customers
Here are a few specific ways I believe you can make a real difference in just one afternoon, transforming your internet experience for the new year.
1. Refresh Your Router Setup
Think of your router as the heart of your home network. It needs room to breathe and a clear path to pump Wi-Fi throughout your home.
- Place your router in a central location. Set it on a bookshelf or high table, not tucked into a corner or behind a large TV.
- Avoid interference from appliances. Keep your router away from microwaves, large metal objects, and concrete walls.
- Restart your router occasionally. A simple reboot clears the system’s cache and restores peak performance.
A well-positioned router drastically reduces frustrating dead zones and ensures your Wi-Fi performs exactly as you expect.
2. Clean Up Your Device List
Are there ghosts on your network? United customers can log in to the UControl App and see the list of every device connected to their network. You will probably find a few devices you forgot you owned.
- Remove or block devices you no longer use. If you retired an old tablet or gaming system, remove its access.
- Rename your devices clearly. Change names like “Unknown-Device-342A” to something clear, like “Dad’s Tablet” or “Living Room TV.” This helps you identify and manage traffic quickly.
- Disconnect unused smart items. Turn off Wi-Fi on old laptops, phones, or smart appliances you rarely use.
Fewer unnecessary devices mean a cleaner, faster network, freeing up bandwidth for the devices you use every day.
3. Review Your Streaming and Smart Home Tools
Just like apps on your phone, streaming apps and smart home tools need attention.
- Delete old streaming services. If you signed up for a service to watch one show and forgot about it, delete the app to prevent background data draining.
- Check smart appliances and security cameras. Ensure the software on your smart bulbs, old security cameras, and speakers is up to date. If you no longer use an item, remove the app and disconnect the device from your Wi-Fi.
Removing these unused devices or logins frees up bandwidth and immediately reduces a potential security risk.
Our Top 3 Digital Declutter Tips for Business Customers
Businesses rely on their network every minute of the workday. Focusing on these specific areas will help maintain security and operational efficiency.
1. Audit Employee Access and Devices
Previous employees should not have access to your network or accounts.
- Immediately review and delete all former employee accounts from shared software, cloud drives, and internal systems.
- Change Wi-Fi and system passwords if a key employee leaves the company.
- Inventory and disconnect any unused or personal employee devices from your business Wi-Fi.
Cleaning up old employee access dramatically strengthens your security posture.
2. Streamline Cloud and SaaS Subscriptions
Cloud services make business seamless, but redundant subscriptions can create unnecessary confusion and inefficiency.
- Review all Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subscriptions. If you have two different tools performing the same function (e.g., two project management apps), consolidate your services to save money and bandwidth.
- Ensure POS systems and shared tablets run the latest software. High-speed internet keeps your point-of-sale (POS) systems running quickly, minimizing checkout delays during busy periods. Make sure all transaction-critical devices are fully updated.
A streamlined digital workflow saves time and boosts employee productivity.
3. Verify and Secure IoT (Internet of Things) Devices
Many businesses use connected devices for efficiency. These devices can include printers, smart thermostats, or security cameras.
- Assign critical IoT devices to a segregated network (if possible). Keep security cameras or printers separate from your main office network to minimize the risk if one device is compromised.
- Update all connected device firmware. Printers and cameras often have security vulnerabilities. Check manufacturer websites monthly for necessary patches.
Start the New Year Fast, Clean, and Connected
A digital declutter doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a few simple steps, you can give your home or business a smoother, safer, and faster start to 2026.
If you want help reviewing your setup—or you’re ready to optimize your network—the team at United Communications is always here to help deliver world-class connection with local care. Cheers to a fresh, connected, clutter-free new year!
Author Bio:
Dan Davidson
Senior Digital Marketing Strategist at United Communications
Dan Davidson is a senior digital marketing strategist at United Communications, where he combines strategic thinking with a relational approach to expand the company’s reach across Middle Tennessee. He graduated from Louisiana State University with a B.A. in mass communication and has spent more than a decade helping businesses grow through inbound marketing, SEO, digital advertising, and customer-focused digital strategy. As a resident of Spring Hill, Tennessee, Dan and his family are proud to call Middle Tennessee home.