We have a network of 17 computers can this amount of computers degrade our internet speed.?

Question

We have broadband connection up to 3mbps. We have 3 computers at a distance from the rest of the computers that have problems could the length of cables have some affect on our intermittent connection, our latest computer when connected close to the modem work great but when connected an office 20 meters away slowed up and had irregular connection.

Answer 1

Yes, if you have noticeable connection problems I would recommend upgrading to a T1 line but they can be pricey.  

Answer 2

Yes.

Are you sure you didn't cheap out on the cable

Did you get UTP cable instead of STP cable ?

This cannot be tested with a cable tester, it will say on the cable.

If you used Unshielded Twisted Pair, then you have signal loss.

You have to use Shielded Twisted Pair....cat5e or cat6 STP....

Answer 3

I would test the cable connecting the computers 20 Meters away and make sure it passes all cat 5 tests.  20 meters is not normally a problem distance wise for 100base T.  It should be good up to 100 meters.

Answer 4

Obviously....... it'll....  

Answer 5

Yes and no.  All depends on your router and connection to router.   While the more computers you connect will degrade to speed, it shouldn't be that big a difference with only 17 computers.  If its possible change the ethernet wires to Cat6, more than likely they are Cat5.  Also if your computers are compatible, upgrade your router or switch to a gigabyte router or switch.  Even though the gigabyte router/switch is for the speed of internal networking, it will increase your speed slightly on the internet.  If all else fails you need to install a repeater for those 3 computers that are far away, but a cat6 will not have attenuation for at least it's either 200 or 300 feet.