Netgear Wireless Adapter 54MBPS - Slow Internet?

Question

I have a 16MB DSL Connection from Sky. Although knowing I live far from the transfer port, which means ill expect speeds of 6-8MB, and a low latency, I was averagely downloading at 650-700KBPS, which I was happy with.

All of the above, was when my computer was wired to the router. We have moved computers in the house, and purchased 2 Netgear Wireless Adapters 54MBPS. Upon installing these, the maximum connection either computer is able to receive is about 2MB (250kbps MAXIMUM). This has only occured sinse installing the wireless network adapters.

Even if only one computer is on... The connection speed is still 2MB

I was just wondering if anyone knew any possible answer to this? Why this is happening?

Many Thanks!

Chris

Answer 1

This is generally caused by the amount of signal to noise level that you are receiving on the Wireless Cards. If the noise level is near the signal level, the cards drop back on the speed to compensate for the issue. To fix it you need more signal or less noise.

There are several ways to increase the signal. Move closer to the router, get a better antenna on the router, add a signal booster. But before you do any of these, change the channel that you are using and see it you find one that gives better coverage. Most people simply use the default channel 1, 6 or 11. If you are on 1 try 9 if you are on 6 try 3 or 9 etc see if there is a better one for your location.

Changing channels may decrease the noise which will allow better signal to the cards. The other ways to decrease noise is to find and remove whatever is generating the noise!. This can be a noisy fluorescent lamp, a cordless phone, a wireless intercom, a wireless camera, or any other number of items that use the same 2.4 Gig frequency range. (I once found a TV wireless speaker system as the culprit!)

Also be sure you are using a Secure connection, set up WPA or less secure WEP but set it up and use it, It will keep anyone else off your system which will also "slow" your connections!

Let me know if you need more information, be glad to assist.
Good Luck

Answer 2

Start with the router antennas, as already suggested, since any improvement to the router will help ALL of the connected systems. Also try re-aiming the antennas toward the areas where your computers are located. Don't just point them straight up.

Answer 3

1st off 54mbs is impossible not matter what it says your real speed is defined by a speed test find a speed test then if it says your Download speed is over 1.5mb's then your good and your upload is 1mb or higher.