Slower than other PCs on wireless network?

Question

Hello,

I am getting a slower download speed than the other two laptops using my wireless network. I have 20 Mb broadband and get ~3Mbps when I test the speed. Usual max download speed is 12 - 15 Mbps for other laptops. Upload speed (~1Mbps) and service effiency (~92%) are the same regardless of whether I connect directly or connect wireless.

I connected directly to the broadband receiver and speed was ~12 Mbps so it's a problem with the wireless connection.

I ran diagnostics using Intel PROSet and there doesn't seem to be any problems. I can't figure out why the download speed is stuck around 3 Mbps. Any ideas what could be causing this?

DELL Inspiron 1520

Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN (802.11g)

Netgear 54 Mbps WGR614 v7

Answer 1

I would suggest you run the Tweak Test from link #1 below.  You can also run the speed test through their servers and see if they match your earlier testing.

Make sure you have latest drivers from Dell for the 4965agn chipset.  Review Dell's support site for your Inspiron to see if there have been other user's reporting similar behavior.

You can check out the Intel product support page at link #2 and see if Intel has received reports similar to yours.  

I have linked the latest Dell update for the 4965 chipset used with Windows Vists.  It was released on 3/6/2008.  The website says it is an optional update but I find that wireless technology is still evolving as the push for 'N' speed gear is heating up.

Check the Netgear link below and make sure you have latest firmware for the WGR614 v7 router.