Internet speed isn't always as fast as it seems.
Internet speed isn't always as fast as it seems.
You're connected to a 5GHz Wi-Fi network. The reported PHY rate tells you how fast your device is receiving data from the router. It's usually listed in Mbps or Gbps. As for what client you're using, it depends on the devices you have—like phones, tablets, smart TVs, etc.—each might connect differently. With around 25 devices and 5 wired ones, your network should handle multiple connections smoothly if set up properly.
I cover 500 up, but Comcast sometimes doesn’t deliver the full amount. My modem is a NETGEAR CM700 and the router is a Nighthawk R6700—both reliable for home internet. I’m using a wired connection with gigabit speed, and my router’s antenna is right next to it. I’m on a channel that no one else in the building uses right now. I’m also cautious about gigabit providers; my mom was scammed by an AT&T rep who installed fiber but ended up with a DSL signal instead.
It's a solid number of clients, but it's not improving your results. Have you considered switching channels? Can you check if the phy rate appears in the client list?
When routers are close together, the signal strength drops significantly. For instance, when I first got 5GHz in my building, I experienced a minimum speed of 350Mbps with just two walls separating the router from my phone. Now, with at least ten routers nearby, my connection has fallen to around 150Mbps.
You're seeing those high numbers because you're connecting directly to your router without any interference. The close proximity to the antenna and the lack of channel overlap in your building make it possible to achieve strong signals.
The device definitely plays a big role. Phones with WiFi chips that handle 600Mbps won’t achieve that speed. My phone with 10Gbps likely won’t even reach it. I tried this recently, expecting a blackout. The test at 8:13PM happened right before the outage in my building and nearby. The one at 8:16PM was the first when the router came back online at 610Mbps—it’s the highest speed I’ve ever seen.
You're experiencing a drop in Wi-Fi speed depending on your location. This can happen due to interference, distance from the router, or network congestion. Try optimizing your router settings, moving closer to the router, or checking for other devices using bandwidth. If the issue persists, consider upgrading your plan or contacting your ISP.