Could My Wireless Adapter Slow My DSL Speed?
Most wireless adapters for DSL lines include a router that has Ethernet ports for up to four computer connections, along with an antenna to connect more computers. Short of defects or component failures, a wireless adapter will not slow the DSL connection speed. But the number of computers connected to it may affect the operating speed of each.
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DSL Speed
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DSL speed refers to the bandwidth of the connection from the modem to the telephone or Internet service provider, and in most cases is between 128 and 512 kbps for household connections. The term bandwidth tells the maximum amount of information the line can carry in wide area technology terminology. Once established by the Internet service provider, your wireless adapter, more commonly called a wireless router, does not affect the speed of the DSL line. However adding multiple computer connection divides the bandwidth among them.
Wireless Modem with Router
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With one computer connected to a wireless adapter, it can use the entire bandwidth of the DSL connection. However, when adding a second computer to the connection, by either wired or wireless means, the bandwidth must be shared between the two, cutting it in half for each. For example, with a 256 kbps bandwidth, one computer may use it all, but two use 128 kbps each and four use 64 kbps each. But the actual speed at which the information travels also depends on the site to which the computer is connected and the condition of the computer.
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Connection Speed vs. Data Speed
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If you are running a computer over a DSL line with 256 kbps bandwidth, and you do an online data speed test, you may see a result of 100 Mbps or higher. Because of a process called encoding, each bit of the bandwidth may carry more information than suggested by the specification. The actual data speed equals the bandwidth multiplied by the levels of encoding. For example, five levels of encoding sent over a 256 kbps line gives a data speed of 1,280 kbps or 1.28 Mbps. Developers constantly seek new ways to send more information over the same bandwidth.
Increasing Computer Speed
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Although the design characteristics of a computer determine the maximum speed at which it can process information, its condition may slow it down. A hard drive that is almost full causes it to run more slowly. Programs, large files of videos, photographs and music can fill a hard drive. Software inadvertently downloaded from the Internet, along with cookies, temporary files, spy-ware and viruses can also slow it down. Frequently using cleanup software included in your operating system or purchased separately can help keep your computer running faster for Internet use over your wireless DSL connection.
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