When looking to achieve the maximum internet speed bandwidth, you need to know the difference between router speed vs internet speed. The best router should handle multiple wireless connections while delivering excellent download speed and high-resolution streaming video. Read our guide to know the difference between ISP speed and router speed.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The speed of your internet plan determines your internet speed.
- A router connects other devices to the internet, and different models can achieve different speeds.
- You need a reliable broadband internet service and a great router to pass along as much data as possible.
Comparing Router Speed vs. Internet Speed
Understanding the difference between router speed and internet speed is essential if you want the best internet service. If you need to broadcast internet across an office or large home, look into the difference between a router and a repeater.
Insider Tip
Make sure you have a fast enough router to get the most out of your internet service.
What is a Router?
The router connects to the internet via a cable modem, typically from your internet service provider (ISP). Individual devices can connect to the router either wirelessly or through an ethernet cable. While wireless speed was once considered flawed, modern routers can get you closer to the advertised speed of your internet plan. In addition, you should know your router’s bridge mode vs. router mode.
Why is a Router Speed Important for the Internet?
A router has the potential to bottleneck your internet bandwidth. For example, if you have a 400 Mb/s internet plan, but your router is only rated for 100 Mb/s, you’re losing out on internet speed. This makes it impossible for you to take full advantage of your internet plan.
Can I Increase My Router Speed?
The best way to get a faster connection is to pick up a new router. While firmware updates and network management solutions can fix slow speeds, modern routers increase performance and wireless signals. That said, the most expensive router isn’t always the best choice.
What is Internet Speed?
The internet plans offered by internet service providers determine the speed of your internet access. Experts measure internet connection speed in Mb/s (Megabits per second) and Gb/s (Gigabytes per second). In general, faster internet is more expensive, but you will have a solid download speed and upload speed.
Why is Internet Speed Important?
Internet speed is essential for any task you want to do on the internet or a connected device. A great broadband or cable internet connection is critical for streaming video and online gaming.
Can I Increase My Internet Speed?
You can certainly increase your internet speed. However, the most reliable method to get faster speeds is to contact your internet provider and upgrade your maximum bandwidth. That said, it is usually best to start by replacing your wireless router or upgrading your wireless devices.
Is Router Speed or Internet Speed More Important?
For the best internet connection and highest possible bandwidth, you need both. If you need to increase your internet speed, begin by replacing your router with a model that can handle more bandwidth. If your internet is still subpar, it’s time to upgrade your ISP service.
Warning
An older wireless device might give you inaccurate speed test readings.
F.A.Q.S
How to do a real Internet speed test?
There isn’t much to picking an internet speed test. Just google “internet speed test,” and a button will appear at the top of the search results. This will give you a reasonably accurate internet speed rating.
Does old equipment affect my internet speed?
Your internet speed is only as good as your equipment. For example, most people know that an old router will limit your internet speed. Still, even older smartphones, tablets, and laptops can restrict your internet speed.
How much faster is ethernet?
The modern Wi-Fi standard supports a Wi-Fi speed of up to 860Mb/s, which is great for most tasks. That said, a wired ethernet connection can support up to 10Gb/s. As a result, ethernet cables and a wired connection will have higher connection speeds and a more stable connection than any Wi-Fi device.
STAT: The typical download speed in the US is just 72Mbps or less than 1 percent of the theoretical maximum speed. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.wi-fi.org/
- https://www.dni.gov/files/NCSC/documents/campaign/NSA-guide-Keeping-Home-Network-Secure.pdf
- https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/protected-voices-router-hardening-102319.mp4/viewr
- https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/internetbasics/how-to-set-up-a-wifi-network/1/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufMNDMlHpC0
