Improve online connection by upgrading network infrastructure and optimizing data transmission protocols.
Improve online connection by upgrading network infrastructure and optimizing data transmission protocols.
I have absolutely no understanding of networking, so I’m unsure where to begin. I’m considering replacing the modem/router combo; it was free about 5 or 6 years ago when my parents signed up for whatever package they received from the provider. I have no intention of switching providers—about a decade ago they tried that and it didn’t work well, so they prefer sticking with what they have. As some of you who are Irish might know, not every location here, especially rural areas, has fiber connections. My home is on a farm, which naturally lacks fiber. I tried satellite internet, but a few trees would need to be cut down and my parents were against it. So we’re still stuck with basic landline service.
I’m not joking, by the way. My old farmhouse has worn-out wires, which might be slowing down internet speeds around the place. The results below come from my bedroom, roughly 10-15 feet from the modem. Ping worsens when I play CSGO; I have to wait until nighttime so the game runs smoothly (about 100ms on average at night, while everyone else in the house is sleeping). My PC is connected via a power-line adapter, and there’s a Wi-Fi booster in the kitchen since it’s on the opposite side of the house from the modem. There are also consoles and a few phones connected, but I’m not sure why they’re not using data—it’s much faster.
Now that all those issues are out of the way, it’s time to discuss upgrades. How would I boost internet speeds? My parents are resistant; they mainly use the internet for reading newspapers and browsing deals on their tablet. Changing providers or getting a new package wouldn’t help them. My siblings have been pushing for this for years, but nothing’s happened. So I’m thinking about a new modem and router, but I’m unsure how much that would actually improve things—especially if I want to keep costs low and the system simple. I just don’t want to risk disrupting the internet in our home.
Your overall package includes more than just the results from speed testing.
it's unclear if it's 6Mb or MB, but i believe it's MB. i suspect the ip address might need updating. downloading or streaming feels frustrating, as i often have to switch to 480p to avoid buffering. it defaults to 720p, but that slows me down significantly.
You won’t be able to accept what your package offers unless you want more than what you already possess. To achieve the next level, you’ll need to upgrade to a superior plan.
I recall when the parents received the package, a specialist arrived, examined several items, and suggested this package wouldn’t reach such speeds. They accepted it without hesitation. Soon after I bought my PS4, they got their tablet, and then my PC appeared with another PS4 and Xbox (my two brothers). You can guess we hit that speed quickly. Now it’s just frustrating trying to download an update—say, 6GB—and it takes 4 or 5 hours on a good day. I remember it took a full week to download Battlefield 4 on my PS4 when I finally got it. Anyway, worth a shot, but I’m getting tired of it all.
If possible, consider helping by paying for an upgraded plan yourself. I did this with my parents back then—it was the only option they had.
never considered it before. i’ll attempt to find a solution since money is tight. the issue at home is clear—just a meal, clothes, and shelter. nothing seems off, but the cash I see is minimal. i’ll keep working through this.