I recently switched to Spectrum and am using the ISP-provided modem/router. My Apple devices have no connectivity problems, but both of my Windows desktops are having separate network issues.
Desktop 1, using a Gigabyte B660 DS3H AC motherboard, shows only one bar of Wi-Fi signal even when it is right next to the router. Its Ethernet connection is somewhat stronger but only reaches about 3 Mbps. I reattached the Wi-Fi antennas, which improved the signal to two bars, but the connection is still very slow. This computer previously used Ethernet and had normal internet speeds.
Desktop 2, using a Gigabyte Z890M Aorus Elite WiFi 7 motherboard, has a strong Wi-Fi signal and appears to have a strong Ethernet connection, but its Wi-Fi disconnects and reconnects roughly every five minutes. Before switching providers, it sometimes needed a restart to reconnect after waking from sleep, although its internet speed was normal.
Both computers are using the same Cat6 cable when tested, and Windows identifies the connections as public networks. I have already disabled power-saving options for the network adapters, updated Windows and the motherboard drivers, removed saved network connections, restarted both computers and the modem/router, and had the ISP reset the service. What should I check next?
1 Answer
Since the two computers have different symptoms, test the basics separately instead of changing both at once. Re-crimp or replace the Ethernet cable if possible, try different router ports, and compare the link speed reported by Windows. A cable can still appear connected while negotiating at 10 or 100 Mbps.
For the recurring Wi-Fi drops, check the adapter's event logs and Advanced settings. Temporarily disable Wi-Fi 7 or 802.11be, roaming aggressiveness, and aggressive power management, then test for a while. Also make sure the router firmware is current. If only the Wi-Fi connection drops while Ethernet stays connected, the issue is likely specific to the wireless adapter/router compatibility rather than the ISP service.
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