TWC and their Wi-Fi

[KTech88]

I have Time Warner Cable and I am using the Arris Modem/Router combo. I have the 50mbs plan and I only get about 20mbs over Wi-Fi with strong signal strength. The modem/router is in mixed wireless n mode and I really want to get closer to the 50mbs speed for game downloads on steam and such. Currently I can only get up to 2.5mb which is right for 20mbs but I want to get something closer to 5mb a second over Wi-Fi. I also must add that the other laptops I connect to also get 20mbs and they are in mixed n mode too. I have a feeling that Time Warner gives you a crappy router/modem and that is why this is happening. If that is the case can I plugin a higher quality wireless router or access point into the router/modem? If so, can I do that without making any changes to the modem/router combo? I am in a position where I can't mess with those settings. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[USAFRet]

"mixed wireless" is almost certainly the issue.
Secondarily, distance or other interference.

What do you get when your PC is right next to the router?

 

[KTech88]

It is a little inconsistent at times, but it starts in the 30's and creeps down to about the mid to high 20's. When I plug directly into the modem/router I get 50mbs right on it during the whole speed test.

 

[KTech88]

According to some more research I did, the equipment they provide isn't top of the line and that's translating into inconsistent wireless speeds and signal strength.