Why is my speeds slow(ish)?
Why is my speeds slow(ish)?
Just installed a new Wi-Fi and it’s set to 900 Mbps down/up compared to my old broadband. Really pleased since locally I only managed 70 Mbps download and 15 Mbps upload. With Heybroadband, my phone handles about 600 Mbps download/upload even near the loft where my PC is located, while my PC itself gets around 200 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload. I also got a new adapter that supports up to 1.9 GB. It comes with drivers and an app called REALTEK USB Wireless LAN Utility which shows details like speed, type, encryption, etc. The app displays TX:780MBPS and RX:780Mbps. Are you seeing anything wrong or is this normal? Sorry if I used incorrect terms—I’m still learning but appreciate any advice! Also, I know I won’t reach 900 Mbps wirelessly, and I tried TP-Link links because Ethernet cables didn’t work directly from the router to my PC, giving such poor speeds. It might be my home wiring is an issue. Adapter details: WAVLINK AC1900 USB WiFi Dongle for PC, Dual Band 1900Mbps WiFi Adapter for Desktop, Laptop PC with Magnetic Base, 4X 3dBi External Antennas, works on Windows 11/10/8/7/XP and Mac OS 10.7-10.15 (available on Amazon).
Usually USB WiFi adapters don’t perform well. PCIe adapters often provide better results. The distance between the adapter and the router, along with nearby objects that interfere with the wireless signal, all play a role in performance. Also, 1.9 Gbps combines both bands, which isn’t typical for standard WiFi. Unless you’re using WiFi 7, you’ll mostly connect to either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. In some setups your device might switch between them depending on signal strength. 2.4 GHz travels farther and penetrates walls better, while 5 GHz offers quicker speeds but shorter range. For optimal reception, place your router higher—directly above or below it will give stronger coverage. If using a USB adapter, try connecting to a different port. A USB port’s shape can distort the signal, resulting in weak reception. Also, check if other networks share the same channels as yours. A WiFi analyzer app can assist, though it won’t see devices using the same bands. The Wi-Fi spectrum is free to use, so as long as devices follow regulations, others can also utilize it.
You're using a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection instead of the standard 2.4GHz, which can affect performance. A PCIe Wi-Fi adapter might help improve speeds, but it depends on your device and network setup. Your antenna showing 780 Mbps is likely a theoretical maximum, but real-world speeds can vary due to interference and other factors. Consider testing with different adapters or checking your router settings for optimization.
Be wary of what Windows suggests about performance. With WiFi available, you can enhance its speed. The surrounding conditions significantly affect WiFi functionality in any location. Typically, PCIe cards perform better, though this isn't always certain.
PHY speed is marginally higher than actual rates. A small extra cost will cap your top performance. It’s a good idea to look into further details.
Another user posted about it. They noticed their phone handled high speeds well, while the PC struggled. They moved the Wi-Fi antennas away from the wall and saw improvement. It seems the phone’s adapter could be superior to the one on your computer. Remember, Wi-Fi is great for casual use; for speed and reliability, use an Ethernet cable.