Signed up for a fast fibre package, but not seeing those speeds on your devices? You’re not alone, and there’s a good reason for it. The speed of your fibre line and the speed of your WiFi connection aren’t always the same.
Fibre = Your Actual Line Speed
Your fibre package (e.g. 50Mbps, 100Mbps) is the speed delivered to your home via the fibre line. This comes in through the ONT, a small box installed by the Fibre Network Operator (FNO).
This part of the connection is wired and consistent.
WiFi = Wireless Inside Your Home
WiFi is the wireless signal sent out by your router to devices in your home; phones, laptops, smart TVs, etc.
WiFi is convenient, but it’s also affected by:
- Distance from the router
- Thick walls or metal surfaces
- Other wireless signals (like your neighbour’s WiFi)
- Old or basic routers
- Multiple devices using bandwidth at once
So even though your fibre line might deliver 100Mbps, your phone on the couch might only get 40Mbps over WiFi, depending on these factors.
Get the Most from Your Connection
- Always test via Ethernet where possible; it’s the best way to measure your true fibre speed.
- Place your router centrally and off the ground.
- Reduce interference; keep it away from TVs, microwaves, and fridges.
- Upgrade your router if it’s more than a few years old.
- Use a mesh system if your home has WiFi dead zones.
Quick Reference
| Feature | Fibre Line (ONT) | WiFi (Router) |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Wired | Wireless |
| Speed Consistency | High | Varies |
| Affected by Interference | No | Yes |
| Speed Test Accuracy | Best via Ethernet | May be lower |
| Number of Users Affects? | No | Yes |
In Summary
Your fibre line brings the full speed into your home, but your router and WiFi setup determine how much of that speed your devices actually get.
For the best results, test via Ethernet, optimise your WiFi placement, and consider upgrades if needed.