Speaking of download speeds... try this.
If your internet seems to be running slow, run a "speed test" using speedtest.net .
Many times, when I do this, the initial cable internet speed is low, but by the time the test ends (30 seconds or so), the speed is back up to blazing speed. Then when I go back to internet browsing, the internet speed is very fast. For at least a little while.
Maybe it is nothing, but seems mighty suspicious... like the cable company knows when you do a speed test and boosts your speed for at least a little while during and after the test.