Skip to main content
DSDownloadSpeed
Hardware & Equipment

Ethernet (Wired Connection)

A wired network connection using an ethernet cable, providing faster and more stable speeds than Wi-Fi with zero interference. The gold standard for speed testing.

What It Means

Ethernet cables come in categories: Cat5e supports up to 1 Gbps, Cat6 supports 10 Gbps at short distances, and Cat6a supports 10 Gbps at 100 meters. Most devices have gigabit ethernet ports (1 Gbps), which is faster than all but the newest Wi-Fi standards. For speed testing, always prefer a wired ethernet connection — Wi-Fi adds variable overhead that can reduce measured speeds by 20-60%. If your wired speed matches your plan but Wi-Fi speed is slow, the problem is your router or Wi-Fi environment, not your ISP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Ethernet" mean?

A wired network connection using an ethernet cable, providing faster and more stable speeds than Wi-Fi with zero interference. The gold standard for speed testing.

Why does Ethernet matter for internet quality?

Ethernet cables come in categories: Cat5e supports up to 1 Gbps, Cat6 supports 10 Gbps at short distances, and Cat6a supports 10 Gbps at 100 meters. Most devices have gigabit ethernet ports (1 Gbps), which is faster than all but the newest Wi-Fi standards. For speed testing, always prefer a wired et...

Related Terms

Modem
The device that connects your home network to your ISP's network, converting the incoming signal (cable, DSL, or fiber) into data your router can distribute.
Router
The device that creates your home Wi-Fi network and distributes your internet connection to all your devices. A router's capabilities often bottleneck your actual internet speed.
ONT (Optical Network Terminal)
The device installed at your home that converts fiber optic light signals into electrical signals for your router. The fiber equivalent of a cable modem.
Range Extender vs. Access Point
Two different approaches to extending Wi-Fi coverage. Range extenders rebroadcast the signal (halving speed), while access points connect to your router via ethernet for full speed.

Learn More

About This Data

Definitions based on FCC standards, industry specifications, and federal broadband policy. Speed benchmarks reflect 2024 FCC standards. See our methodology.