The internet, in many instances, seems to be the one factor that really brings our smart devices to life. From complex projects and regular work tasks to gaming and streaming, there is a lot that we may do while connected to the internet. While in most cases, we opt for a wired connection because of speed, some users have complained that their ethernet is slower than the Wi-Fi connection on Windows 11.
In this article, we help users walk through this problem, recommending some of the most practical fixes to help them get back to a fast ethernet connection.
Why Is the Wired Connection Slower Than WiFi?
There are a few reasons why your wired ethernet connection is slower than your Wi-Fi connection on Windows 11. Top of the list are the following:
- The Ethernet cable could be broken or defective.
- You may be using an ethernet cable with a lower transfer cap and category.
- You have a problem with your computer’s Ethernet ports.
Regardless, you can fix the problem with the solutions below.
1. Restart Your Router and Modem
When Windows 11 Ethernet is slower than your Wi-Fi connection, restart your router or the modem. This will help resolve the problem by clearing temporary memory and cache.
A restart is often powerful enough to fix temporary network issues, including DNS errors and IP address conflicts. Sometimes, after a restart, the router will automatically update the firmware. However, you may move on to other fixes if the problem persists.
2. Check for Faulty Cables and Ports
You may have cable issues when the ethernet is slower than your Wi-Fi. They may be damaged or not correctly connected. If your cables are damaged, you may be experiencing a lot of interference, affecting the internet speed.
3. Confirm You Have the Correct Ethernet Cable Category
There are different categories for ethernet cables, each varying by a maximum transfer rate. You would use one that matches your permitted network speed; if not, you may experience considerable drops in speed.
You may confirm your cable category by looking through the printed label for a Cat X marking, with X being the category number. If, for instance, you have a Cat 5 cable, you can get a maximum 1Gbps data transfer rate.
So, if your network supports a higher transfer rate than the cable, you should try upgrading.
4. Run the Hardware Troubleshooter
The hardware troubleshooter on Windows 11 will scan your computer for hardware complications. If any are found, it will fix them or, in some cases, recommend fixes you may choose to apply. You may run the hardware troubleshooter with the steps below.
Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 2: Type cmd, then hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
Step 3: Type the script below and hit Enter to invoke the troubleshooter.
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
Step 4: Click the Advanced option.
Step 5: Tick Apply repairs automatically and click Next, then follow the wizard to complete the troubleshooting.
5. Eliminate Electromagnetic Interference
You should check for electromagnetic interference when your Windows 11 ethernet is slower than the Wi-Fi connection. It is a common cause of reduced internet speed on computers. You may prevent this by using special ethernet cables that are shielded. Also, you should ensure the cables are not running beside electric devices or power cords.
6. Update the Network Adapter Driver
Drivers are a vital connection between hardware and software. So, when Windows 11 ethernet is slower than the Wi-Fi connection, it may indicate an outdated network driver. Here is how to update your Network drivers:
Step 1: Click the Start menu and select the Device Manager option.
Step 2: Expand Network adapters, right-click on your driver, and select Update driver.
Step 3: Click Search automatically for drivers.
Step 4: Follow the wizard to complete the update.
You can also reinstall the network adapter as an alternative. Corrupt or out-of-date drivers can be removed by reinstalling the network driver. This is a workable fix if the slow ethernet connection is triggered by corruption. The steps are as follows:
Step 1: Click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Expand the Network Adapters category, right-click on your driver, and select Update device.
Step 3: Confirm your choice by selecting Uninstall.
Step 4: Restart your computer, open the Device Manager, and click the Scan for hardware changes icon to reinstall the driver.
FAQ on Windows 11 Ethernet Is Slower Than Wi-Fi Connection
1. How do I determine Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection speed on Windows 11?
One of the easiest ways is to use an internet speed testing website. However, you may also install some apps to run internet speeds.
2. Should I use Wi-Fi and Ethernet at the same time Windows 11?
Although you can connect your Windows PC to Ethernet and Wi-Fi simultaneously, neither connection will be used simultaneously by the system. Windows automatically sets up the network adapter order priority to offer the optimum Ethernet or Wi-Fi Internet connection.
Getting the Optimal Ethernet Speed
If you have followed the steps in this guide, your network should give you the optimal ethernet speed. You may refer to our other guide if you have general slow internet on Windows 11.
Let us know in the comment section if you have any additional questions.