Is the speed of your Ethernet connection stuck at 100Mbps? If so, several factors could be limiting it. You may only have a 100Mbps connection, and the speed technically cannot go higher; router settings could be limiting the bandwidth, or there could be an issue with the router, Ethernet cable, or cable connectors.
Likewise, misconfigured Ethernet adapter speed settings, incompatible or corrupted drivers, and technical difficulties with the ISP can also limit speed. If you want your Ethernet connection to surpass 100Mbps, here are a few checks and fixes you should try.
1. Check Your Internet Plan
2. Perform Some Basic Checks
Start troubleshooting the problem by performing these basic fixes, as they may resolve the issue right away:
If none of the above checks uncaps the internet speed, it’s time to move on to the remaining fixes
3. Ensure Your Network Card Supports Gigabit Speed
The Ethernet Card, also known as the Network Interface Card, connects your computer to the internet via an Ethernet cable. If you have an old computer, the adapter installed may not be capable of delivering over 100Mbps. Therefore, ensuring that your card supports the gigabit connection is imperative.
To check this, look at the name of the adapter. If it contains keywords such as gigabit, gbe, 10/100/1000M gigabit, you probably have a gigabit connection. In contrast, if you see Fast Ethernet, 10/100FE, your connection is 100Mbps. Alternatively, you can check if your network adapter supports gigabit speeds in Device Manager. Here’s how:
If1.0 Gbps Full Duplexis listed, your card supports gigabit connectivity. Your card does not support gigabit connections if100 Mbps Full Duplexis the highest value listed. In any case, selectAuto Negotiationfrom theValuedropdown in the network adapter settings if any other value is selected.
4. Ensure Your Router Supports Gigabit Connection
Like your network card, your router should also be capable of delivering 100Mbps+ speeds. You can check that by looking at the router’s documentation or description on the manufacturer’s website. If the router manufacturer claims this specific model is a gigabit router, it can likely deliver gigabit speeds.
If you have a gigabit router, make sure the port where your Ethernet cable is connected is also a gigabit LAN port that can handle up to 1Gbps data rates. Switch to a gigabit port if it’s connected to a “Fast Ethernet” port, which can only deliver 100Mbps. Hopefully, this will increase your internet connection’s speed.
If your router doesn’t support a gigabit connection, you will have no choice but to switch to one that does.
5. Get a High-Category Ethernet Cable
The Ethernet cable itself should be capable of delivering 100Mbps+ speed, just like your router. Ethernet cables with low bandwidth, such as Cat5, can only deliver speeds up to 100Mbps. If you want higher speeds, you need at least Cat5e cable, which can provide speeds of up to 1000Mbps.
Cat5e and Cat5 cables have identical physical appearances, but don’t let that fool you. Instead, look at the cable’s label to determine its category. If it’s low bandwidth, replace it with Cat5e or higher.
6. Remove Restrictions in the Router Settings
Most routers allow users to limit the connection speed. Therefore, log into the router’s admin interface to ensure speed isn’t constrained there. Here’s how you can do it:
Some routers allow users to switch between gigabit and 100Mbps speeds. If your router offers this option, opt for the 1Gbps connection.
7. Rule Out Any Hardware Issues
If none of the above fixes resolve the issue, it’s time to check for and rule out hardware problems thoroughly.
Start the hardware inspection by checking both ends of the Ethernet cable where cable connectors are installed. Ensure both connectors are in good condition and all internal wires/conductors are pushed to the end and aren’t falling off.
Once you have confirmed that, inspect the Ethernet cable from one end and go through the entire length. If the cable shows any physical damage, especially areas that remain bent all the time, you may need to replace it.
If the cable is intact, examine the Ethernet ports on your router and laptop. If any of the ports appears damaged, you should switch to another one (if available).
Get the Most Out of Your Ethernet Connection on Windows
If your internet speed remains capped at 100Mbps despite applying all the fixes above, you should contact your internet service provider.
