Internet speed for downloads through the wireless router

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C.M.2000 Author

Level 1

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Internet speed for downloads through the wireless router

I have a 2008 time capsule and am using it as a wireless router connected to my modem. I want to make sure it can handle the high speed TWC internet that I purchased. (download rate of 50mbps.) I just want to make sure I am getting the full value. I know that if you hold down option and click on the wireless logo, it gives you technical information about your wireless connection capabilities. The transfer rate is in Mbps, but is that the same as the download rate? Is there a difference? Any insight would be great. Thanks in advance!

Posted on Nov 12, 2012 9:11 PM

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LaPastenague

Level 9

67,208 points

Nov 12, 2012 9:23 PM in response to C.M.2000

The transfer rate is in Mbps, but is that the same as the download rate? Is there a difference? Any insight would be great. Thanks in advance!

The rate that is shown is link rate.. and transfer rate is less than half that figure. Wireless is single channel half-duplex so by its nature.. all wireless devices are time sharing.. and wireless cannot tx and rx at the same time.. so there is a lag. and speed is affected by having to transmit and then receive.

Just use a web speed test site in your area or ftp store.. measure one computer by ethernet and another by wireless..

You should also do a test direct to the modem to make sure the TC is up to the load.

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