Question:

“I’ve assembled a new gaming PC featuring a Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX ICE motherboard and the accompanying Wi-Fi antenna. However, I’m experiencing significantly slower internet speeds, only achieving 7-8 Mbps according to speedtest.net, whereas my previous PC would reach speeds of 70-80 Mbps in the same location. Moreover, my Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ phone registers speeds of around 120 Mbps here. Despite installing the latest motherboard drivers and attempting various solutions from YouTube tutorials, the issue persists. Given that my ISP is Starlink, could you advise on steps I might take to resolve this slow internet speed problem on my new gaming PC?”

Answer:

If you’re encountering slower-than-expected internet speeds on your newly assembled gaming PC, it can be quite frustrating, especially when other devices in the same location are achieving much higher speeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue:

Ensure that the Wi-Fi signal strength is strong where your PC is located. Physical obstructions, distance from the router, and interference from other wireless devices can all impact signal strength.

2. Check Network Bandwidth Settings:

Access your router’s settings to check if there are any bandwidth limitations set for your PC’s MAC address or IP address. Ensure that your PC is allowed to use the full bandwidth available.

3. Update Network Drivers:

You’ve mentioned installing the latest drivers, but it’s worth double-checking the manufacturer’s website for any recent updates that might not have been automatically applied.

4. Optimize Wi-Fi Antenna Placement:

The positioning of the Wi-Fi antenna can significantly affect reception. Experiment with different orientations and placements to find the optimal signal.

5. Test with Ethernet Connection:

If possible, connect your PC directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. This can help determine if the issue is Wi-Fi specific.

6. Disable Other Network Adapters:

If your PC has multiple network adapters (e.g., Ethernet, Wi-Fi, virtual adapters), disable all except the one you’re using to avoid conflicts.

7. Adjust Wi-Fi Channel and Frequency:

Interference from other networks can be reduced by changing the Wi-Fi channel or switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, if your router supports it.

8. Contact Starlink Support:

Since your ISP is Starlink, reaching out to their customer support can provide ISP-specific advice and help determine if there’s an issue with the service itself.

9. Consider Hardware Issues:

It’s possible that the Wi-Fi module on the motherboard might be defective. Testing with an external USB Wi-Fi adapter can help rule this out.

10. Reset Network Settings:

As a last resort, resetting your PC’s network settings to default can sometimes resolve unexplained connectivity issues.

By methodically going through these steps, you should be able to identify and fix the slow internet speed problem on your new gaming PC. Remember, if all else fails, consulting with a professional technician can provide personalized assistance based on your specific setup. Good luck!