A cable removes the home Wi-Fi from every test. That is why we ask for one on a speed test or a support call. The steps are short, but the screens differ between Windows and Mac. We did not read a Microsoft or Apple page for this task, so the menu names below are generic.
Steps
- Pick the right port on the router
The router has one internet or WAN port and several LAN ports. The High Desert cable from the injector is already in the WAN port. Use a LAN port for the computer.
- Plug in both ends
A click means the plug is seated. If the laptop has no Ethernet port, a USB or USB-C adapter adds one.
- Turn Wi-Fi off
This stops the computer using both. On Windows use the Wi-Fi switch in Settings. On a Mac use the Wi-Fi menu.
- Open the network status
On Windows 11, open Settings, then Network and internet. The top shows Ethernet if it is wired. On a Mac, open System Settings, then Network, and look for Ethernet in the list with a green dot.
- Check that the status says connected
If it says unplugged or no cable, try another LAN port and another cable.
- Browse a site
Open a page you have not visited today.
- Run your test now
Use how to run a speed test. Plan speeds are listed as up to figures, and a wired reading shows what the computer can get.
Why does the cable matter for a speed test?
Wi-Fi has its own limits: distance, walls and neighbors. A cable takes those out, so the reading reflects the line and the router. If the cable reading is good and Wi-Fi is poor, the fix is in the house. The guide internet is fine but Wi-Fi is slow goes through it.
What cable do I need?
Any ordinary Ethernet cable works for home use. A short one is easiest to test with. Do not use the cable that runs to the outdoor radio, and do not unplug it.
The computer says connected but there is no internet.
Restart the router and the injector in order, then try again; restarting your equipment lists the order. If other devices on Wi-Fi are also offline, use the five checks.
Do I need to go outside or touch the antenna for this?
Keep your feet on the ground while you do this. A problem at the antenna or the radio is a phone call, not a climb.
Sources
- support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows (Microsoft Windows support; no single page was read for this task, so the menu names are generic)
- support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/welcome/mac (Apple, Mac User Guide; menu names generic)