New iMac Slow Internet Speed!

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The speed you get from Speedtest.net is router and software dependent.
If your machine is on a local area network, clogs along the line may slow it down.

If your machine has an older version of Java, it may not be optimized for the test. Check the Software update in the Apple menu.

If you want your true bandwidth, use an FTP binary into your internet service provider's server with a direct connection to the modem, and not a router when connecting to the internet. The transfer rate of individual files from your internet service provider's webhost server to and fro gives you your true bandwidth. Speedtest.net is in a unique location many hops down the net.

Your Netgear may not be up to the same standard as the Mac when it comes to networking. It may need a firmware to get it to speak at the same speed with Macs as PCs. Try the same transfer directly over the modem to see if the issue is with the Netgear.

Message was edited by: a brody

All you have to do is:

1. Unplug the modem power.
2. Shut down the Mac. Apple menu (the Apple logo in the upper left corner) -> Shut Down. Confirm the desire to shut down and wait for the screen to go black.
3. Connect the ethernet wire directly from your Mac to the modem. Don't use the Netgear at all.
4. Connect the power cable to the modem.
5. Wait for the modem to start showing it has internet connectivity. Ask your internet provider what light that would be for your modem model, if you don't know.
6. Power up the computer.
7. Verify internet connectivity in Apple menu -> System Preferences -> Network -> Click on the popup menu Show at the top below the menu for Location "Built-in-ethernet". See the image below:



8. If your IP address is a 10, 169, or 192 prefix you are still not connected to the internet. Let us know if this is the case.
Otherwise, you should be connected to the internet, and should be able to test the internet connection and see if there is any difference.

Message was edited by: a brody

Message was edited by: a brody

Well, did you try my directions? If it does result in faster speed, that means you have to replace the router, or ask Netgear if they have a firmware update available.

Message was edited by: a brody

It says to me there is something wrong with the Netgear, that the Mac is just simply more sensitive to. Replace the Netgear.

Message was edited by: a brody

The only router I'd rely on is an Apple Airport Extreme.

At least that way, if you came in here, someone would know what's wrong with some setting. Otherwise you are dealing with Linksys or Netgear.