Can a new router increase ethernet speeds

TheRaginGamer

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Dec 10, 2014
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I have been living with an internet DL speed of 3.5Mb/s for a very long time now. I have read some posts with people saying they bought a new router and their speeds are now much higher than ever before.

I use a direct ethernet link from my modem-router to my pc so I am not sure if a new router will help with cable speeds, my understanding is they only boost wifi speeds so if someone could explain to me that would be greatly appreciated.
 
Solution


We could change the laws of physics....:lol:

But no, there probably isn't anything they can do.
You only need a router if you want to connect more than 1 device to the internet. Your direct connection to the modem is fine. You need to contact your service provider to see how much bandwidth you are being charged for and maybe have it increased, and if the modem is old it may need replacing.
 


What speed do you pay your ISP for?
Is this wired or wireless?
What exactly do you have now? A modem, or a modem/router?

A new or different router will not increase things beyond what you pay the ISP for.
 


Maybe. 3.4 Mb is pretty slow for any service today. The service can likely be much better. Check with your ISP to see what your plan promises.

Look at the modem and find the DOCSIS version it supports, then query the ISP for the DOCSIS version supported by your service. DOCSIS 3.1 is emerging as the latest version but 3.0 will be far more common and well supported. If you are renting equipment from your ISP they should update older equipment on request. But a more cost effective option is to buy your own and return to the ISP's modem to them.
 

3mbps is quite normal for ADSL, especially toward the end of the cable drop. Before cable service came to our office, we were happy to reach 1.5mbps out of DSL 😉
 


The OP says he has cable.
 


Since we've only gotten the initial post from the user, it is all speculation until he comes back with some answers.
 


Certainly. I choose to answer the question as best I could based on what the OP says. Others take the gather more information approach. And sometimes with very non-technical posters the actual question remains speculative no matter what. Somehow it all seems to help at least some of the people some of the time.
 


Right. 3.5mbps seems low for a cable connection. But to some, DSL also come in via a 'cable'.
 

Sorry guys for the late reply, just to clear things up i am using a modem-router, ADSL 2+ and using ethernet for my pc although the wifi speed in close proximity is identical.
 


Right. ADSL, not a coax 'cable'.
What speed do you pay your ISP for?
 

I dont believe they quoted us a specific speed, just stated we are getting ADSL 2+ which is up to 20Mb/s
 


Well...ADSL depends greatly on your specific distance to the local exchange.
Yes, ADSL may go up to around 20Mbps. But only if you live right next to the exchange, and have really good quality copper.

A different router can't fix that.
 

using 'www.adsl2exchanges.com.au' i am 2660m from the exchange as the crow flies, an estimated cable length of 3325 m and an estimated speed of 5Mb/s
 


As the crow flies is not how the wire is laid....:)
Estimated wire distance is 'estimated'.

So. A theoretical max of 5Mbps based on distance.
Give up a little bit for a section of crappy copper in between, or in your house, and we arrive at what your seeing - 3.5Mbps.
A new router can't change that.

Very likely, you're getting the max you can at your specific residence, with that ADSL technology.
 

So to answer my final question, there's nothing my provider can do to change this speed?
 


No one else can answer for them.

It never hurts to call the ISP and ask. The worst that can happen is they say you have the best they offer but maybe they can help. If your equipment is old , it also would not hurt to buy a new DSL modem and see if it helps. Buy from a local store with a good return policy and if there is no speed increase, then return the modem. Stores have a return policy to encourage you to try their goods. When you check the speed, make sure you have a direct wired connection to the modem..