Many internet users encounter frustrating situations where their download speed does not match their expectations or the plan they subscribed to. A common scenario is when users notice that their download speed is limited to 90Mbps, whether they're connected via WiFi or a LAN (Local Area Network) cable. This article will explore possible reasons behind this throttling, provide analysis, and suggest practical solutions.
The Problem Scenario
You may find yourself in a situation where despite having a high-speed internet plan, your download speed consistently hits a ceiling of 90Mbps. Both your WiFi connection and your wired LAN connection show the same capped speed, which can be confusing and annoying. The original issue can be summarized as follows:
"My download speed is throttled to 90Mbps both on WiFi and LAN."
Analyzing the Issue
Understanding why your internet speed might be throttled requires diving into several potential causes:
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ISP Limitations: Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may impose throttling during peak hours to manage network congestion. If multiple users are online, they may limit your speed to ensure fair distribution among users.
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Router Capabilities: If your router is outdated or not configured to handle higher speeds, it may limit your throughput. Make sure your router supports the internet plan you're paying for.
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Device Limitations: Sometimes, the device you are using may not be capable of achieving higher speeds. For instance, older network cards can be a bottleneck.
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Cable Quality: In the case of LAN, using low-quality Ethernet cables (like CAT5 instead of CAT6) can restrict speeds. Ensure your cables meet the required specifications for optimal performance.
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Background Usage: Other devices in your network could be consuming significant bandwidth, inadvertently throttling your download speed.
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Network Configuration: Misconfigured network settings, such as QoS (Quality of Service) settings, can affect your download speed. Some configurations prioritize certain types of traffic over others.
Practical Solutions
If you're experiencing throttled download speeds, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
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Check with Your ISP: Contact your ISP to ensure there are no issues on their end, and confirm that you're subscribed to the correct plan that should provide higher speeds.
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Upgrade Your Hardware: If your router or device is outdated, consider upgrading to a more modern version that supports higher speeds. Look for dual-band routers that support WiFi 5 (802.11ac) or WiFi 6 (802.11ax).
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Inspect Your Cables: If you're using a wired connection, check the Ethernet cables and upgrade them if necessary. CAT6 or CAT7 cables are recommended for speeds above 100Mbps.
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Limit Background Usage: Disconnect devices that are not in use, or limit downloads or streaming on other devices while you are testing your download speed.
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Reset Network Settings: Resetting your router to factory settings can sometimes resolve any misconfiguration issues. However, be sure to back up any important settings you have.
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Use Ethernet When Possible: For the most reliable connection, use a wired Ethernet connection instead of WiFi, especially when downloading large files.
Additional Resources
For further insight into optimizing your internet speed, consider the following resources:
- Speedtest by Ookla: A popular tool for measuring your internet speed.
- Router Guide: Reviews of the best routers to fit your needs.
- Cable Standards: A guide to different Ethernet cable standards and their capabilities.
Conclusion
Experiencing a capped download speed of 90Mbps on both WiFi and LAN can be frustrating, but understanding the potential causes is the first step towards a solution. By examining your ISP's policies, upgrading your equipment, and managing your network usage, you can improve your internet speed and enjoy a smoother online experience. Remember to regularly check your speed and re-evaluate your hardware and settings as needed to ensure optimal performance.
By following these guidelines, you can overcome throttled speeds and unlock the full potential of your internet connection. Happy browsing!
