If your speed tests show speeds capped at 100 Mbit/s despite having a faster broadband connection, the issue is likely your router's WAN port limitation. Many entry-level routers only support 100 Mbit/s on the WAN interface, which connects to your fiber modem. To achieve speeds above 100 Mbit/s, you need a router with a Gigabit (1000 Mbit/s) WAN port.

How to resolve this

  1. Step 1: Check your router's WAN port specifications

    Search for your router model online and look for the technical specifications. Find the section describing the WAN port (the port that connects to your fiber modem) and check if it supports 1000 Mbit/s (Gigabit) or only 100 Mbit/s (Fast Ethernet). You can usually find this information on the manufacturer's website, in the user manual, or by searching for your router model followed by "specifications" or "technical data sheet."

    Tip: If you're unsure about which model of router you have, check the label on the bottom or back of the device. It often includes the model number and manufacturer.

  2. Step 2: Verify which port is the WAN port

    The WAN interface is typically labeled "WAN", "Internet", or has a different color than the LAN ports on your router. This is the port where your fiber modem cable should be connected. If you're unsure, refer to the router's user manual for guidance.

    Tip: To ensure proper setup, double-check that no other devices are plugged into the WAN port, as this can cause connectivity issues.

  3. Step 3: Upgrade your router if necessary

    If your router's WAN port only supports 100 Mbit/s, you will need to replace it with a router that has a Gigabit WAN port to utilize speeds above 100 Mbit/s. When choosing a new router, look for models specifically labeled as "Gigabit" or ensure they support 1000 Mbit/s on the WAN interface.

    Tip: Consider also upgrading your LAN ports to Gigabit if you have devices that can handle higher speeds. This will help maximize your network performance throughout your home.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify whether your router is the bottleneck in your broadband connection and take appropriate action to improve your internet speed.