I'm using a Gigabyte B550M DS3H AC R2, and its built-in Wi‑Fi performs poorly even with the included antenna connected. Speeds can drop to around 1–20 Mbps, despite the computer and router not being very far apart. Would adding a separate Wi‑Fi card improve things, or are there other fixes I should try first?
3 Answers
Before replacing anything, check that the antenna connectors are fully tightened, then install the latest motherboard Wi‑Fi drivers from Gigabyte. Also test both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks—5 GHz is usually faster, while 2.4 GHz has better range but more interference. Comparing the speed on another device in the same spot can help determine whether the issue is the PC or the router.
If the signal is weak or there’s a lot of interference, a mesh Wi‑Fi system or access point can help. Placing a mesh node near the computer and connecting the PC to it with Ethernet is often more reliable than using the motherboard’s Wi‑Fi directly.
A replacement PCIe or M.2 Wi‑Fi adapter may improve performance if the onboard module or its drivers are the problem. An Intel-based adapter with current drivers is a reasonable upgrade, but it’s worth checking the antenna placement, drivers, and 5 GHz connection first since a new card won’t fix a weak router signal.
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