Looking For Help w/ D-Link DIR-655 Wireless Speeds

[Callisto]

Title pretty much says it, I know jack shit about routers and interwebs, so I'm just wondering if there's anything I can do to improve things. I have Comcast broadband, I get about 16-18Mb/s d/l speed per speedtest.net on wireless, but double that when plugged in. Our computers sit in the same room as the router, one about two feet from it, one about ten feet from it. My laptop is a Toshiba Satellite A215, it looks the built-in wireless adapter is an Atheros AR5007EG Wireless Network Adapter, g/f's computer uses a Netgear WG111v3 USB adapter.

Is it normal to have such a large decrease when using wireless over wired connections? I was under the impression that the drop-off wouldn't be so large as a 50% cut. If there's anything I can do to improve it a bit so that I can cut down on the clutter of cables in the room I'd appreciate the advice.

[Darus Grey]

If you're connected via G, G's maximum theoretical bandwidth is ~54Mb/s, the realistic rate really is only 1/2 of that, which if you include some overhead puts your speed about where it should be. The rated speed for wireless protocols is done in lab conditions and thus isn't meant for real-world. If you're using a mixed signal( b/g/n or g/n or b/g) you'll also see a small drop in average performance.

Basically, your internet is faster than your wireless speed, it's not an issue with your router. Connect via wireless N or wired if you want to go above ~20Mb/s

I have this same router as a note.

[shirasoma]

My router is setup as G only, and I cap out at roughly 18 Mbps on lan, so your speeds sound right. I'd take the advice above and use a Wireless N card/adapter.

[Sigi]

Also, if you have your router near any EMF generators (Microwave, speaker subwoofers, wireless phone bases, shit like that) MOVE THE EFFIN ROUTER.

This is all from the angry DSL tech. Have a nice day.