Why Am I Not Getting Gigabit Speeds?
February 23, 2024 | Tachus Community
So, you’ve finally upgraded your internet to 1 Gigabit per second or higher and have everything plugged in and ready to go.
But when you run a speed test, you see that you’re not quite hitting that 1 Gbps mark you were so excited for.
Many internet users on a 1 Gbps plan wonder why they have never actually seen maximum speeds. When you’re connecting to the internet, you might be disappointed to not see the 1 Gbps download and upload speed that you’re paying for.
Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may promise one speed, but the actual speed you get at home may be different. Many factors can affect your internet speed and it’s important to optimize so you can maximize your connection.
We’ll show you how to fix some problems yourself, and get you as close to your desired speed as possible.
Understanding Internet Speeds and Devices
Why don’t I get 1 Gbps during speed tests?
Several factors can affect why you aren’t getting gigabit speeds. These include:
· Device Capabilities – The device you’re using isn’t capable of downloading 1 Gbps.
· Network Congestion – Too many devices on your network are limiting bandwidth.
· Network Infrastructure – Achieving the maximum advertised speed is often unrealistic because of inherent network infrastructure and technology limitations.
5 Easy Ways to Improve your Internet Speed
1. One of the best ways to improve your internet speeds is to look at your devices! You might have blazing-fast internet, but if you’re booting up Grandma’s dinosaur PC, get ready for stone-age speeds.
2. Make sure you’re up-to-date on your updates! Yes, you may have to go 5 minutes without TikTok to download the software updates, but it’s well worth it for optimized speeds.
3. Be wary of your router. Imagine your router like the pit stop between your device and the internet. If it’s outdated, you’re basically putting a speed limit on your connection.
4. Consider using a wired connection for even more consistency. While the convenience of Wi-Fi can be great for a cell phone, a wired ethernet connection is crucial for online gaming.
5. Take a few of your devices off the network. Even if you aren’t actively using them, background data is constantly being used and can eat up your bandwidth.
How can I check if my devices support gigabit speeds?
You can find most device specifications either in your manual, or if you search online.
In your search engine of choice, try searching with one or more of these phrases:
· “[device name] technical specifications”
· “[device name] data rate”
· “[device name] download speeds”
Most likely, you’ll find the specifications listed online where you can see exactly how fast your device can download.
Also, you can contact the manufacturer’s tech support to confirm if your devices can handle gigabit speeds.
Older devices or those with outdated networking hardware may struggle to achieve optimal speeds.
How Does my Router Affect my Speeds?
Like we mentioned earlier, your router is like a pit stop between your device and the internet.So, it can either limit your speed, or give it the fuel it needs.
Optimizing your wireless router can help improve network connections on multiple devices.
Outdated or improperly configured routers can bottleneck your connection, limiting internet speeds. If you use an internet router through Tachus, you can ensure an optimized connection featuring 24/7 support and troubleshooting!
Like with your devices, your speeds will only be as fast as your router and Wi-Fi signal will allow them to be. If you know your router can support gigabit speeds, but you aren’t getting the signal strength you should be, try troubleshooting it.
Should I use a wired connection for faster internet speeds?
While most modern wireless connections offer impressive speeds, a wired Ethernet connection is faster and more reliable. Consider using Ethernet cables for devices that require consistently high speeds and low latency, like online gaming.
What should I consider before using a wired connection?
Before setting up a wired connection, choose the most important devices you want plugged in. Additionally, ensure your devices have Ethernet ports or use compatible adapters for seamless connectivity.
Proximity to the router is important too. You’ll either need a cable that can reach your router, or you may need to reinstall your router to a nearby location.
When you install Tachus Fiber Internet, your service tech can help you choose the best location to suit your needs.
Why do my gigabit speeds top out at around 940 Mbps?
Protocol overhead, network congestion, and hardware limitations can cause speeds to be lower. Users typically experience speeds of around 940 Mbps, accounting for data overhead and transmission delays.
What is data overhead and why does it affect Internet speeds?
Data overhead and speed limitations are inherent aspects of internet connections that affect the speeds you experience.
Data overhead refers to the additional data required for transmitting information over a network. This additional data reduces the effective throughput of your connection. Protocol overhead and signal processing, including processes handled by your modem, contribute to data overhead.
Essentially, it takes time for your modem to think and translate data into something a device can understand. This processing time will slightly lower speeds than the advertised maximum.
Dealing with Internet Service Provider Issues
So now you’ve taken all the steps to optimize your connection. Your devices are updated and capable, you’ve configured the perfect setup with wired ethernet, and you’ve minimized your network congestion.
But if your speeds still aren’t where they need to be – it might be time to look your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
What causes slower Internet speeds from my ISP?
Slower internet speeds may stem from network congestion, infrastructure limitations, or service disruptions within your ISP’s network. These issues can impact your connection’s performance, particularly during peak usage hours or maintenance periods.
Slow speeds can also be caused by throttling – where your ISP imposes a limit on your bandwidth.
How can I tell if my Internet service provider is causing slow speeds?
Monitor your internet speeds across different times of the day to identify patterns of inconsistency or significant fluctuations. Additionally, make sure to compare your actual internet speeds with the speeds promised by your Internet Service Provider. If you consistently experience slow performance, it is advisable to contact customer support for assistance.
What can I do if I suspect my Internet service provider is the issue?
If you think your internet provider is causing slow speeds, contact their support to report the problem and ask for help. Provide specific details regarding your internet speeds and any observed patterns of inconsistency to expedite the resolution process. With Tachus Fiber Internet, you can rely on proactive support and timely solutions to address connectivity issues effectively.
Achieving gigabit speeds requires optimized hardware, network configuration, and reliable internet service. To make your internet faster and get the most out of your gigabit connection, learn what affects it and act.
Familiarize yourself with the factors that influence your internet speed. Take proactive measures to address these factors and improve your connection. By following these steps, you can make the most of your gigabit connection and enjoy faster internet speeds.
Get Blazing-Fast Speeds with Tachus Fiber Internet!
If you’re tired of slow, inconsistent speeds, it’s time to upgrade to Tachus Fiber Internet today!
With Tachus you can achieve blazing-fast speeds at any time of the day. Unlike our competitors, Tachus will never limit your bandwidth, throttle your connection, or increase your price.
Our customer service team is available 24/7 to help you optimize your connection and achieve consistently high speeds.
Ready to upgrade to 100% frustration free internet from Tachus? Check Availability here and receive updates on Tachus Fiber in your neighborhood.
