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Step 1: Open the Settings App

  1. Click on the Start button (the Windows icon) in the taskbar.
  2. Select Settings (the gear icon).
  3. Alternatively,
    • You can press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings directly.
    • You can also click on the Network icon in your system tray at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen and then select Network and Internet settings.

Step 2: Navigate to Network & Internet Settings

  1. In the Settings window, click on Network & Internet from the left-hand side menu.
  2. Under the Network & Internet section, select Ethernet (if you're using a wired connection) or Wi-Fi (if you're connected wirelessly).

Step 3: View the Link Speed

  1. On the Ethernet or Wi-Fi settings page, look for Link speed (Receive/Transmit). This will display the speed your NIC is currently operating at, for example, 100 Mbps or 1 Gbps.

Commentary:

  • The Link speed represents the maximum data transfer rate between your computer and the network.
  • A common wired connection should display 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) if it's using a modern Gigabit Ethernet connection. Wi-Fi speeds can vary significantly depending on the router and distance but might show values like 150 Mbps, 300 Mbps, or higher.

Troubleshooting Tips:

  1. Unexpected Link Speed:

    • Lower than Expected (e.g., 100 Mbps instead of 1 Gbps): This could indicate an issue with the network cable, your router, or the settings on your NIC.
    • Steps to troubleshoot:
      1. Check the Cable: Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both your computer and the router/modem. If possible, try a different cable, preferably one labelled as Cat 5e or Cat 6, as older cables might not support higher speeds.
      2. Router Compatibility: Ensure your router supports Gigabit Ethernet. Some older routers or network equipment may only support up to 100 Mbps.
      3. NIC Settings: Your NIC might be set to operate at a lower speed. You can check this by going back to the Network & Internet settings, then selecting Advanced network settings > More network adapter options. Right-click on your Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection, select Properties, and under the Networking tab, click on Configure.... In the Advanced tab, find the Speed & Duplex setting and ensure it is set to Auto Negotiation.

  2. No Link Speed Displayed:

    • If the link speed is not showing at all, your NIC might not be functioning correctly, or there could be an issue with the connection.
    • Steps to troubleshoot:
      1. Restart the Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connection issues.
      2. Check Device Manager: Press Windows + X and select Device Manager. Expand the Network adapters section, right-click on your NIC, and choose Update driver. If the problem persists, try Disable device followed by Enable device.
      3. Test on Another Device: If possible, connect another device using the same cable and router to check if the issue is specific to your computer or if it’s a broader network issue.
 
Keywords: NIC link speed