Use this guide to find out whether slow internet performance is limited to Wi-Fi or also affects a wired device. A Wi-Fi link rate is not an internet speed test. This guide avoids router logins and Wi-Fi channel, width or quality-of-service changes.
1. Run a controlled Ethernet speed test
Run a controlled wired test, if possible. Use one device connected by Ethernet to the router.
Pause heavy activity on other devices and run the same reputable speed test more than once. Note the time and results.
2. Test Wi-Fi near the router
Test Wi-Fi on the same device near the router. Keep the test and other conditions as similar as possible.
If Wi-Fi is slower but wired is steady, focus on the wireless environment and device rather than assuming an NBN fault.
3. Move the Wi-Fi device closer
Move the Wi-Fi device closer and retry. If performance improves, distance or obstacles may be contributing.
Keep the device in a safe, practical position; do not move or reconfigure the router as part of this test.
4. Compare another Wi-Fi device
Compare a second device on Wi-Fi. If only one device is slow, check its Wi-Fi capability and software.
If several devices are slow on Wi-Fi but wired is good, record that pattern as a Wi-Fi-specific issue.
5. Pause heavy household activity and retest
Pause large downloads, streaming and other heavy household activity, then repeat. If the result improves, competing traffic may be contributing.
If both wired and Wi-Fi are slow across devices, use the matching service guide: FTTC/FTTP/HFC/Fixed Wireless speed checks or FTTN/FTTB speed checks.
6. Record your results
Record the test time/results, device, distance, wired/Wi-Fi, other activity and VPN state. A VPN can change the route and test result; do not disable a work VPN without your organisation's approval.
Stop when the comparison identifies a consistent difference; there is no need to change router settings to collect this evidence.