Why is my speed limited to 100Mbps on wired Ethernet inside the house?
Why is my speed limited to 100Mbps on wired Ethernet inside the house?
I appreciate this device since it helps you identify wires and test Ethernet connections. I have several other products linked to this one.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TMDFG3W
Although these budget options may miss things like incorrect wire colors on the wrong pins, the cheaper ones can’t detect issues such as mismatched pairs or expensive equipment for splitting them.
It’s best to inspect the wiring and confirm it matches pattern 568a or 568b.
Ethernet cables are designed for point-to-point connections.
If you have a switch, the cables probably lead to a central hub.
You can use this device to locate both ends of the cable first. Plug the sender into a jack and listen for a tone when touching other cables.
This model isn’t suitable for tracing wires inside walls, but higher-end versions exist.
Once you identify both ends and believe the wire colors and layout are correct, test whether the port functions properly and if all eight pins transmit signals correctly.
Generally, when a port operates at 100mbps, there’s likely a problem with either the blue or brown pair—assuming standard 568a/b wiring. These ports were once wired with just four wires instead of the full eight.
yes, open up a wall jack and examine the wire (printed on the cable) to see how it was installed, and also verify that they didn’t make any mistakes like forcing the wires into the wall.
Do you have more Ethernet outlets than the router? If yes, the switches I usually install in poor setups were in closets and the attic, while another spot was the garage. However, if you need a switch in these areas, you’ll need special ones that can withstand extreme temperatures without rewiring.
Typically, only one wire fails, which might be the case if the issue disappears when connecting all but one functioning run to the router. However, it seems like someone has installed a standard switch in the attic because they can't locate it, though they haven't confirmed whether there are more Ethernet ports than the router supports.
I've confirmed it uses Cat5e cable and found it close to the ports near the router. There are four ports on the router and another four throughout the house, suggesting a possible switch or panel between A and B. The slow speeds make me think there might be a panel or switch involved. It would be annoying if it's in the attic, but I don't have a ladder there yet—it's the only spot I haven't checked.
well its probably doesn't have a switch, and its most likely either bad installation run (kinks in the wire) or they used CM, CMP or CMG cable as these types should never be used in attic + wall runs.
Other things come into mind too like the house might of had a mouse infestation and they chewed the wires, or the router needs to be replace because its loosing signal drive.
If there are multiple ports, it’s more likely someone made a mistake. A single port can develop loose connections over time. Wall wires usually remain intact. Occasionally, if you frequently plug and unplug devices from the jack, they might wear out, though they generally handle a lot of stress and still function. Perhaps I overlooked something. Did you ever share the router model? It’s not crucial to post it, but ensure the router has gigabit ports. 100mbps LAN ports are uncommon today, though older routers often had them. If the ports support gigabit speeds, we’re back to the original cabling issue. Technically, wire colors aren’t critical, but matching pin pairs is essential. The confusion comes from pairing numbers like 1,2 with 3,4 and 5,6 with 7,8. Most other combinations work better, except for the 3,6 pair which should stay together.
I've got a new Amazon eero 6+, it only has one LAN port and it supports 1Gbps and can confirm I get good speeds when plugged directly into it. It's only when going through the ports in the wall that it gets limited to 100Mbps.
Looking at the ports they are wired as shown on the port itself, here's a link to a twitter post I made with photos, they aren't the neatest but it seems like they are put in the right places.
https://twitter.com/x/status/1894091587006709929
View: https://x.com/Sam_Felts/status/189409158...CjiiA&s=19