How to Check Network Adapter Connection Speed in Windows 11

This guide explains how to check the speed of your network connection in Windows 11.

Before you check your connection, it is important to know the difference between Link Speed and Internet Speed. Your Link Speed is the maximum speed at which your computer talks to your router or modem. Think of it as the width of your driveway.

Your Internet Speed is how fast your data travels to the outside world, like the speed limit on the highway. A high Link Speed does not guarantee fast internet if your service plan is slow.

Method 1: Check via Task Manager

Task Manager is the fastest way to see your real-time network performance.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click the Performance tab on the left.
3. Select Ethernet or Wi-Fi from the list.
4. Right click at the bottom and select View network details.
5. Look for Speed or Link speed (Receive/Transmit).

Method 2: Check via Windows Settings

This method provides a clean view of your current network status.

1. Open Settings (Win+I).
2. Click Network & internet on the left.
3. Click Properties for your active connection.

4. Scroll down to find Link speed.

Method 3: Check via Network and Sharing Center

This is the classic way to view your Network Interface Controller (NIC) status.

1. Open Control Panel and select Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click the blue link next to Connections.

3. A window will pop up showing the Speed.

Method 4: Check via PowerShell

For advanced users, PowerShell provides a quick summary of all adapters.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin). [Requires Admin Privileges]
2. Type the following command and press Enter: Get-NetAdapter | select interfaceDescription, name, status, linkSpeed

How to Change Network Adapter Speed Settings (GUI)

If your speed is capped, you may need to adjust the duplex settings.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. [Requires Admin Privileges]
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click your adapter and select Properties.
4. Go to the Advanced tab.
5. Find Speed & Duplex in the list and change the value from Auto Negotiation to your desired speed (e.g., 1.0 Gbps Full Duplex).

Troubleshooting Slow Speeds

If your link speed is 100 Mbps but you pay for 1 Gbps, check these common bottlenecks:

• Cables: Ensure you are using a Cat5e or Cat6 cable. Old Cat5 cables are limited to 100 Mbps.
• Wi-Fi Band: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is slower than 5GHz. Check your router settings to ensure you are connected to the 5GHz band.
• Drivers: Outdated software can throttle performance. Learn how to update network drivers in Windows 11.

Summary

Checking your network adapter speed helps you identify if your hardware is working correctly. Whether using Task Manager, Settings, or PowerShell, you can quickly see if your connection is performing as expected. Remember to check your cables and Wi-Fi bands if you notice slow speeds, and always ensure your drivers are up to date.