Unique 5G home connection performance
Unique 5G home connection performance
Hello, welcome. I’ll start by describing how my home network is set up before explaining the issue. On January 3rd, I switched to 5G internet (expected speeds of 500-600Mbps) using a ZTE MC7010 unit outside my house. Inside, I connect a cable from the 5G device to one of my TP-LINK Deco P7 units (three installed for mesh coverage in the two and a half floors). From the P7, there’s another cable leading to a TP-LINK TL-SG1005P V2 in the attic (a PoE device powering two outdoor Reolink cameras). That PoE unit sends a cable downstairs to a TP-LINK TL-SG108E, which connects to my PC, printer, NAS, and living room TV. I also have WiFi mesh for phones and tablets throughout the house.
However, there’s a problem with the mesh network. When checking speeds via Speedtest.net or Netflix’s Fast.com, I consistently see around 50Mbps—far below expectations. This happens even when downloading files via FTP, averaging about 3 files at 2-4MiB/s each (roughly 10MiB/s total). The same speed issue appears when transferring small data.
My concern is why the P7 needs to be adjusted to reach the advertised speeds. I’m trying to determine if the problem lies with my equipment or if my ISP needs to improve service. Let me know what you think.
It seems the cable likely belongs to the same P7 system, and the 5G connection isn't tied to any of the other remotes.
Referenced three components for the mesh section only. The remaining two are excluded from consideration. Even if they were part of this cycle for any reason, I'd still doubt achieving a 10x download speed during a speed test. Yeah - I have an RJ45 cable running from that 5G device all the way to my PC. E: In fact, I tried connecting multiple units to the network initially, but it just failed and I didn’t want to explore linking them simultaneously (probably some setup issue). Edited February 4, 2022 by Yakousei Additional info
I’d consider installing a Gigabit switch at the end of the 5G device. A PoE model would also be useful, eliminating the need for additional power outlets. You seem to think the P7s operate in access-point mode since the ZTE unit functions as a router.
The positioning of the ZTE's power unit creates some inconvenience. However, I need to verify this if the P7 is indeed causing the bottleneck. Upstairs lobby 2 has a power outlet for PoE, supporting 5G in one location and the P7 main via an extension cord. Two cables run from the PoE unit—one close to the P7 and another passing through the wall into the kidrooms closet. From the closet, another cable goes past another wall into the cold-side attic, allowing the 5G cable to exit outside. The P7 then connects to the PoE for cameras and the link downstairs. This setup is complicated because the service provider deemed the attic too cold for a power outlet or unit. It might have been set to wireless router mode by the SP's 5G installers, possibly marked as "recommended." I attempted to switch it to AP, but that would require significant changes if I want to proceed. I’ll try to obtain a 3rd Gigabit connection to see if it helps. It looks like I only have one 10/100 PoE available as an extra.
My perspective is that NAT increases overhead whereas running a test on the P7 happens before NAT is applied, which might explain the difference. It’s a possibility, though unlikely, but it’s worth checking if the device operates in bridge mode.
The installers were speaking quickly, so the detail was probably hidden somewhere. He was an experienced person, but he understood what he was saying. I think he set it up correctly. I need to find the documents with the ZTE password to check the settings. "You shouldn't have to touch anything on ZTE. And if something goes wrong, just call and we'll handle it." I don’t believe there’s a double NAT because I can access my Plex server without issues from outside the network, and the same applies to the two Reolink cameras. Still unsure, but I feel confident. First, I’ll connect the network without the P7 to see if it causes problems. Also, look for the 5G unit password to review the setup page.
It appears it's operating in bridge mode with a public IP address, likely allowing only one device at once, which means a router is necessary.
I discovered a Huawei WA8021V5 from my electronics collection. Initially assumed it was unused or old, but it seems to be in good working condition. After setting it up, I realized it could serve as the first step following 5G deployment. With three ports available, I can connect the main Deco P7 and a PoE switch, extending power throughout the house. Currently, I’ve achieved speeds of 600-700Mbps downstairs on my PC, and everything is functioning properly. I plan to tidy up later and possibly replace some cables with shorter ones.