Does A Cable Splitter Reduce Internet Speed? Know the Fact!

A cable splitter is a popular pick due to its easy setup and availability. When the term, split come up, then you may wonder whether it will reduce your internet connection or not. Basically, it depends on the router and the internet provider.

In some instances, the cable splitter performs well, and sometimes it reduces the internet speed as well. To find out when you will face internet speed reduction while using a cable splitter, you will need to walk through the entire article.

So, without any ado, let’s dig into the article.

Does the Internet Speed Really Decrease for a Cable Splitter or it’s a Myth?

A cable splitter lets you connect multiple devices with the ethernet cable without any hassle. But it can reduce your internet speed. Basically, it depends on the type of network. The cable splitter is based on the BASE-T standard or you can call it Fast Ethernet.

This fast ethernet technology conveys a 100 Mbps nominal traffic rate. That means when you are using an internet service that provides you 100 Mbps then the cable splitter won’t cause any speed issues.

When you are using an internet service or a router that provides you with more than 100 Mbps, you will face speed reduction; because the BASE-T standard cannot pass more than 100 Mbps.

Another scenario where you will face speed reduction is when you will use more than two devices. Because the cable splitter can support two devices at a time without any problem. When you increase the device number, the internet speed reduces.

Also, if the Signal to Noise ratio is below 32dB, the upstream transmit is more than 54dBmV, and the downstream receive power is out of the -8 to 8dBmV after installing the splitter then you will face a speed reduction issue. You can check these things on the modem diagnostic page.

Things You Can Do to Avoid Speed Reduction While Using Cable Splitter

If you find yourself using a cable splitter and there is no other efficient way then you should keep these things in your mind and follow them to avoid the speed reduction issue.

• The cable splitter reduces the signal strength. Some come with a higher signal reduction rate, avoid them. Also, after installing a cable splitter check the signal-to-noise ratio, upstream transmit, and downstream receiver power signal.
• If you are willing to connect more than two then don’t use a two-way splitter.
• Avoid gold cable splitter, it reduces the signal-to-noise ratio.
• Don’t use an internet service of more than 100Mbps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much signal strength is lost when using a cable splitter?

A 2-way cable splitter lost 3.5dB, a 4-way will lose 7dB, and an 8-way will lose 11 dB (Decibel).

What is a better Ethernet splitter or a switch?

Between an ethernet splitter and a switch, the switch is better. It provides you with better internet speed than the splitter.

Conclusion

Lastly, if you are using a cable splitter for two devices and the internet package is not more than then you won’t face any issues. Also, while you are buying a cable splitter, check the signal loss amount and after installing check out the model diagnostic page for the S/N ratio, U/S transmit, and D/S receiver power.

That’s all for today. If you have any further queries, feel free to let us know in the comment section. Gracias!