Updated internet provider, speeds increased significantly, computer still drops during games, network card problem?
Updated internet provider, speeds increased significantly, computer still drops during games, network card problem?
I changed providers from Sky to Virgin internet today. My connection speed jumped from around 5-15 Mbps to 50-100 Mbps on my desktop. While playing League of Legends I had solid ping in the 30s, then experienced sudden spikes causing disconnections. When that happened I couldn't reconnect myself, so I had to turn off Wi-Fi and reconnect via the router. This seems to point toward a problem with my network card. I don’t have Ethernet as an option.
Consider using a Wi-Fi extender. Your connection speed may be dropping due to factors like your ISP, router placement, distance between devices, and physical barriers. Check if your previous ISP caused issues. If not, explore aftermarket routers as a solution.
I don’t have much experience with them, so here’s what to consider when choosing one. You’ll want to focus on reliability and performance. Since you’re moving the router closer after relocating it, check if it improves coverage in that area. Your setup has limited options—being near a wall and having space between your PC and the router might help, but you may not be able to change much. The last ISP had many issues, so prioritize a stable provider next time.
We got it just yesterday, which means it could be a temporary problem if those issues are present in the router network.
Hello, here are my suggestions and insights from my networking journey. I’ve worked with various Wi-Fi extenders and boosters. 1) One-size-fits-all extenders often fall short—they promise speed but deliver lag and poor performance. 2) Size doesn’t always mean capability; smaller units can struggle with heavy usage.
To troubleshoot:
- Look at your surroundings for overlapping channels or signal bands. Conflicts can degrade your connection. For Android users, the Wi-Fi Analyzer app can reveal nearby devices and band congestion. If you spot your SSID, try moving your router to a less crowded channel via the ISP admin panel. This prevents automatic selection into busy bands.
- Verify your router’s settings are current. Outdated configurations may hinder performance.
- Check for competing devices—laptops, TVs, smart devices, or multiple users on video calls can strain bandwidth. Ensure your ISP router isn’t overloaded; sometimes it auto-selects the most crowded channel, which can cause interference.
If you’re in an apartment, crowded networks are common. Adjusting settings to avoid peak usage times or relocating the router can help. Remember, your ISP router isn’t built for heavy simultaneous tasks like gaming or streaming.
For optimal results, run a speed test using a wired connection. If it performs well, consider setting up your own Wi-Fi via the router’s LAN port and connect directly to it. This gives you full control over bandwidth allocation.
This should resolve the issue without affecting your ISP plan. Stay safe, and let me know if you need further clarification!
In my experience, Wi-Fi extenders aren't the best solution—they reduce speeds to expand coverage. I'm unsure if your property has similar range issues elsewhere; if yes, mesh networking equipment might be worth exploring, though it can be costly. A powerline adapter offers a more affordable alternative and is a solid choice if your home's wiring supports it. As before, upgrading to a higher-quality router is a smart initial step, given the proximity to your existing router. If challenges continue, consider the options I previously mentioned.
You might be able to lay Ethernet lines while working on the flooring. Check if your router is connected to the ISP to confirm.