Speed Test Guide: Wired vs Wireless Connections
Understanding Your Broadband Performance
Why Compare?
A wired connection directly to your BT Hub is typically faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. Testing both helps you understand your broadband's true performance and whether your Wi-Fi is causing any issues.
1
Understanding the Connection Types
Wired (Ethernet)
How it works
A physical cable connects your device directly to the BT Hub.
Best for...
Speed & Reliability: Online gaming, 4K streaming, large file downloads.
Speed
Consistently high speeds, close to your plan's maximum.
Reliability
Very stable, unaffected by obstacles or other Wi-Fi networks.
Wireless (Wi-Fi)
How it works
A radio signal connects your device to the Hub.
Best for...
Convenience: Browsing, streaming on phones/tablets, smart home devices.
Speed
Speeds can vary with distance, walls, and interference.
Reliability
Can be affected by walls, microwaves, and your distance from the Hub.
Simple Analogy
Think of Wi-Fi like broadcast radio — the signal can fade or suffer interference. A wired connection is like a landline telephone call — direct and clear.
2
How to Run an Accurate Speed Test
Before You Start:
- Use a wired connection: Stop downloads, video streams, or online games on all devices. for the most accurate result, if possible.
- Connect directly: Stop downloads, video streams, or online games on all devices. If testing wirelessly, stay in the same room as your BT Hub.
- Use a wired connection: Stop downloads, video streams, or online games on all devices. for the most accurate result, if possible.
Step-by-Step Test:
2
Connect Your Device
🔌 Wired test:
Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into your laptop or computer, and the other into a yellow Ethernet port on the back of your BT Hub.
📡 Wireless test:
Ensure your device is connected to your Zoiko Broadband Wi-Fi network.
2
Go to the Speed Test Website
- Open your web browser (Chrome, Safari, etc.).
- Use the BT Speed Test: https://www.bt.com/broadband/check-your-broadband-speed
What to Do Next?
Wireless speed is low, but wired speed is good
Your Wi-Fi needs optimising. Try our "Change Wi-Fi Channel" guide Your Wi-Fi needs optimising. Try our or move your BT Hub to a more central location.
4
Interpret Your Results
🔌 Wired test:
Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into your laptop or computer, and the other into a yellow Ethernet port on the back of your BT Hub.
📡 Wireless test:
Ensure your device is connected to your Zoiko Broadband Wi-Fi network.
📌 Summary
For the best performance, use a cable. For testing, always try a wired connection first to see what your line can truly deliver.If you need further assistance or have additional questions, feel free to ask!
