I'm experiencing frustrating ping spikes and packet loss lately. I've tested my setup on two different PCs and everything seems fine on speed tests, but the issues pop up when I'm downloading or gaming online. I've tried all the usual fixes like rebooting and connecting via Ethernet, but nothing has helped. It's puzzling because my internet was working perfectly just out of the blue one day. Since my router is a good 2-3 years old, I've read that they can start to degrade over time. Should I consider getting a new one? I'm with Xfinity, and any router recommendations would also be appreciated!
3 Answers
High ping during downloads can sometimes happen due to buffer bloat, especially if the router can't handle all the traffic properly. Try testing your connection directly with an Ethernet cable to rule out the router. If you can't borrow a router, checking and possibly updating your current one’s firmware might also help. It's usually available on the manufacturer’s website.
It could definitely be your ISP acting up, but considering your router is a few years old, it might be worth upgrading. If you've had the same router for that long, they can start to fail. Just check with your ISP first to rule them out before making the investment. If you’re experiencing lag particularly during heavy usage, that could indicate the router's not handling the load well anymore.
From what you described, it seems like your router might struggle under load. If it’s a cheaper model, getting a more reliable router could help. Also, make sure all your drivers are up to date—sometimes updates can cause issues too. Testing with another router if possible could confirm if that's the issue.
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