Author: admin

When you do a speed test, you see two numbers in the results: one is your upload speed and the other is your download speed. The results will be your plan speed in Mbps, but the speed while actual downloading the data from the internet will be lesser than the speed test result and it will be measured in MBps. It doesn’t mean that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is providing you less speed.

The main difference between the two terms comes down to bits vs. bytes. The first acronym, Mbps with a lowercase “b,” refers to megabits per second, while the second, MBps with a capital “B,” stands for megabytes per second.

Both terms are related to measurements, but they are used differently. Megabits per second is commonly used when talking about internet upload and download speeds, or the rate at which information is uploaded or downloaded based on your connection speed. Megabytes per second is referenced when talking about file size or the amount of data transferred. You might see MBps shortened to just MB, such as a 500 MB video clip. MB can also be used when talking about internet data limit or mobile data allowances.

The actual speed will always be the 8th part of the plan speed. For example, if you have a plan of 100 Mbps, the actual download speed you will get is approximately 12.5 MBps. The reason for this will be the same: difference in bits and bytes. 8 bits make 1 byte. So, the plan speed is on Megabits and the actual speed will be on Megabytes.

We already know all the devices have different wireless capabilities and the speed depends on multiple factors. Devices such as mobiles and tablets will have a lesser capability than the desktop and the laptop as these devices have smaller memory and processors comparatively.

There are other factors on which the speed depends:

Wi-Fi router compatibility: If your router is not capable enough to deliver the speed you have opted for, it will just be a waste of money. So, it is better to check the router compatibility as per your plan. If you have opted for the higher speed, make sure your router is capable enough to deliver it.

The difference in Wireless and Wired Connection: The speed always varies in a Wi-Fi connected device and a local area network (LAN) connected device. The reason for the same is, a wired connection will be directly connected to the device and wireless will use radio signals to connect with the device.

The distance of the device From the Wi-Fi router: The Wi-Fi speed depends on the distance of the device and the router. The farther you will be from the router, the weaker the signal will be. So, it will directly impact the speed on the device. Make sure that your device is at the closest distance from the Wi-Fi router so as to achieve the best speed.

The number of the devices connected: If there are multiple devices connected on your Wi-Fi router, the speed will get divided amongst all the connected devices. Therefore, whatever the plan you have opted for, the speed will get distributed among the connected devices. Hence, it’s better to disconnect the devices that are not in use to get a better experience on the speed in which you are working.

Device compatibility: One of the main factors of the variation in speed is the capability of the device. The speed of the device depends on the operating system and the wireless interface of the device. Better the device, more efficient will be its speed.

Interference inside the home: If you have placed a router at a location inside your home where other devices using radio waves are also installed, the speed will vary and result in poor speed delivery. Reason: devices such as refrigerators, microwaves, emit radio waves and if these devices are placed between the Wi-Fi router and the mobile device, then the Wi-Fi signal will get interference resulting in variation of the speed.

Did you know that the location of the router in your home actually affects its speed performance? The Wi-Fi signals spread in the air, just like sounds are transmitted while talking. So, elements in the room such as the walls, shelves and other signal-emitting devices may impair its speed. 

The ideal location for your home is a combination of various factors that one can take into consideration. Thus, you must keep in mind  these factors when selecting the best location to optimize your router for fast Wi-Fi speed.

Centrally position it in the house – Routers send a signal in all directions, so to optimize the signal, it’s best to put it in a central location.

Multi-level home – If you are in a multi-level home, the best place for your Wi-Fi router is between the two levels. If it is a two-story building, either near the ceiling of the first floor, or the floor of the second floor will be the best location to place the Wi-Fi router.

Avoid thick walls and windows – The Wi-Fi signal travels best through open air. The ideal setup will be when your router can view your device directly.

Metal objects – Make sure these are not placed between your computer and the router. Metal is the biggest enemy of your Wi-Fi signal strength.

Avoid electronics – Other electronic items that you have in your home may also emit radio waves. They may interfere with Wi-Fi signals, it’s like two or more people talking simultaneously. A neighbour’s Wi-Fi router may add noise in the air and impair the speed and quality of your connection.

Proximity to the user – The Wi-Fi signal weakens with the distance, ofcourse! So, the best speed will be achieved close to the device.
While, there is no one best location to place your Wi-Fi device, since many factors affect the performance, yet, these few points might actually help you to get better results and enjoy your internet connection seamlessly.