Ethernet connections guarantee faster connectivity as compared to wifi connections, this is because data packets are transmitted over physical cables unlike through the use of radio waves as is the case with wifi.This is due to the possibility that Wifi signals could be lost owing to objects encountered along the way. Let’s know the reason why Ethernet Slower than Wifi.
Why then is my connection slower over ethernet as compared to Wifi? For the third time, no, you are not connected over wifi. In this article, we will go over some reasons as to why your ethernet connection is slower than your wifi connection.
Reasons why Ethernet connections may be slower than Wifi connections
Factors that may make an ethernet connection slower than a wifi connection include:
Ethernet connection points
The physical condition of the ethernet cable
Ethernet data transmission interference
Network Adapter Card Drivers
Ethernet cable quality/type
Router configurations
Ethernet cable length
Malware on a host computer
These are some of the main factors that may affect your ethernet connectivity. Let us now explore each factor and see the possible solutions.
Ethernet connection points
The source of the problem may be at the 2 endpoints to which the ethernet is connected. One endpoint is the computer ethernet port, while the other endpoint is the ethernet port on the router. Either of the endpoints may be the source of the problem. A solution to this problem is to switch the end point connections. This may not be a problem in the case of the router endpoint, as a router has multiple ethernet ports. If the problem is on the computer endpoint and there is no alternate port, the port has to be repaired. However, this may not be the case, so explore other solutions before resorting to this.
The Physical Condition of the ethernet cable
The ethernet cable may be physically damaged and this may affect the cable’s performance. Inspect the cable, and if there are any signs of wear or damage, test the connectivity using a different ethernet cable.
Ethernet data transmission interference
As is the case with data transmission over wifi data transmission, data transmission over ethernet cables may also be affected by interference. The ethernet cable should be moved away from any device that emits any kindof radio wave. An example of such a device is a microwave.
Network Adapter Card Drivers
A network adapter card is a computer hardware component that enables a computer to connect to other network devices over a network. A driver is a computer program that controls the functioning of a particular computer hardware component. Network Adapter Card drivers, therefore, control the Network Adapter card. Drivers may become corrupted and may require updating or reinstalling. Visit your computer’s manufacturer’s website and download the Network Adapter Card driver, installation steps are made available by the manufacturer.
Ethernet cable quality/type
Every ethernet cable available has a version. The oldest ethernet version is Cat-1, it has the slowest speeds and it is hardly used.Other ethernet versions include: Cat-3,Cat-5,Cat-5e, Cat-6, Cat-6a, Cat-7, Cat-8.The higher the number the higher the capable speeds and the newer the version. If you are using an older version which may be very unlikely, your ethernet speed will be slower than your wifi speed and you should look to upgrade your cable.
Ethernet cable length
One of the factors that affect ethernet cable performance is the cable length. This is because the signal transmitted degrades as the transmission distance increases. If your network device is close to your router consider using a shorter ethernet cable to reduce degradation hence optimizing the connection.
Malware on a host computer
Malware refers to malicious software that may be present on a computer. Malicious software may affect the computer’s network drivers and settings. Your computer may have been exposed to such software so it is, therefore, advisable to purchase antivirus software and scan your computer for malware.
Router Configurations
Router configurations are router settings that are set by issuing commands over the various ethernet modes. If an individual has attempted to change a particular setting or if you set up the router on your own, you may have unknowingly misconfigured the router. A solution to this would be resetting the router’s configuration or reconfiguring it.
In conclusion
Ethernet connections are generally faster than Wifi connections. If your Wifi connection is faster than your ethernet connection there is an issue and you should try one of the solutions we have discussed above. Ethernet is a powerful technology when fully utilized hence it is important to ensure that we optimize how we use it.
Frequently asked questions
1. What does the Cat part of the ethernet stand for?
Cat stands for a category. The ethernet cat-3 cable for instance stands for ethernet category 3 cable.
2. How do I check my ethernet connection status?
Ethernet connection status can be observed at the router. The router displays green if the connection is okay and red if there is an issue with the connection.
Ethernet connection speeds can be tested online by visiting various websites such as fast.com
