Ethernet vs. Wireless

[Schrodinger56]

Is there a reason why when I connect my computer to my router via an ethernet cable I get a faster download speed result from the Sky BB speed checker than when I use the computer wireless?

Results were:-

Ethernet:- 9.5 -10Mb

Wireless:- 6.5 - 6.7Mb

Thanks

[Ratcliffes]

Yes - Your ethernet may well have been running at 100MB/s but WiFi can often run at less than the speed of your broadband and so becomes the bottleneck. If all you are using the connection for is browing and email then don't wory. If you need all of the speed available to you then use a cable or if this is impractical, use homeplugs via the electrical wiring.

[Isitme]

It is quite normal for wireless speeds to be lower than ethernet. There are many factors which effect wireless speed, these include the quality of the signal, local interference and your buildings structural issues. If your wireless is secured, as it should be, the encrytion used will further effect the true download speed.

If you haven't already done so and are not running Vista, use TCPOptimiser or DrTCP (links below) to optimise your wireless adapter. You might also want to experiment with changing the channel on the router to see if you can improve the quality of the signal.

[dms05]

Only use Wireless when you absolutely have to. Ethernet (including HomePlug over your 240v mains cable) is more secure and faster.

[Schrodinger56]

It is quite normal for wireless speeds to be lower than ethernet. There are many factors which effect wireless speed, these include the quality of the signal, local interference and your buildings structural issues. If your wireless is secured, as it should be, the encrytion used will further effect the true download speed.

If you haven't already done so and are not running Vista, use TCPOptimiser or DrTCP (links below) to optimise your wireless adapter. You might also want to experiment with changing the channel on the router to see if you can improve the quality of the signal.

Thanks. I'm running Vista on my PC & Laptop and Leopard on my Mac. Based on the expert advice here I'll move the router and hard wire it into the PC & Mac but keep the Laptop wireless for obvious reasons.