Use faster hardware, optimize settings, and reduce congestion.
Use faster hardware, optimize settings, and reduce congestion.
Hey everyone, I'm currently studying at university in a house with five other people. My roommate and I live farthest from the router, which is causing slow internet speeds. We're using the Virgin M350 package, but it doesn't provide fast enough performance. I've repurposed some old equipment—specifically a TP-Link 600Mbps powerline adapter and an older TP-Link router. This improved our connection, though it's still not optimal. My current download speed from the powerline to my computer is about 42Mbps, while the software shows a theoretical rate of 112Mbps. I'm wondering if using higher-speed powerlines (like 1200Mbps) would really boost the speeds or if there are other factors at play. We're trying to upgrade both the hardware and the router to get closer to the speeds we see upstairs, all while staying within a tight budget. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
If OP is near the end of the wiring, better powerline adapters probably won't make much difference beyond just accounting for a small error margin. It might be worth trying if you plan to return them later; otherwise, consider alternatives such as a cable as suggested by slottr.
If you can run a cable straight, do it. It's usually the most affordable, quickest, and most dependable Ethernet connection you can get. The secret to strong Wi-Fi often lies in positioning your devices properly rather than replacing them. Many people place their routers in awkward spots or misalign their antennas. When upgrading, consider adding a dedicated access point—hang it high on a wall or ceiling for wider coverage instead of switching to a new router. P.S. Powerline isn't great.