Why is my gigabit connection limited to around 90 Mbps?
Asked by
MapleOrbit42
I'm paying for a 1000 Mbps internet connection, but downloads only reach about 90–100 Mbps. Resource Monitor also shows roughly 10% network utilization, so it seems like something is limiting the connection. What should I check to find the bottleneck?
Answers
Check every device between the computer and the modem or router. Some older routers have only 100 Mbps ports, and adapters such as powerline networking can also negotiate at 10/100 Mbps even when their advertised speed is much higher. Your computer’s Ethernet status should show a link speed of 1.0 Gbps.
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The 10% reading is probably just Resource Monitor showing usage relative to a gigabit-capable network interface; it doesn’t necessarily identify the actual cause. First confirm the negotiated link speed, then test the cable, router port, and any intermediate equipment.
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A steady maximum around 90–100 Mbps usually means one part of the connection negotiated a 100 Mbps link instead of gigabit. Check the Ethernet cable, make sure both plugs are fully seated, and try another known-good cable. A damaged wire or poor termination can prevent gigabit speeds.
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If you’re using Wi-Fi, the limitation could be the wireless hardware, distance, interference, or being connected to the 2.4 GHz band. Test with a direct wired connection to a gigabit-capable router port, then run a speed test to separate an internet-service issue from a local network issue.
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VelvetMango3: Gigabit Ethernet uses all eight wires, while 100 Mbps can work with only four. One bad pair is enough to make the connection fall back to 100 Mbps.