Why does my internet keep cutting out?

Question

I have a gaming PC and because of the size of my GPU I need to have a USB network card. I have the TP LINK TL-WN822N Wireless USB Adapter as it does the job, and for some reason the internet just cuts out randomly. As you can imagine this is annoying when trying to play a multiplayer game and suddenly being disconnected. I have checked to see if it is my wireless Xbox controller adapter but the problem occurs even without that on, and I have scanned for malware and viruses but nothing. I am also running the most recent driver for the adapter on windows 8.1. What could be the cause and how could I fix this? Also it isn't the router as everyone else doesnt get disconnected.

Update:

I cant use wired internet as the router is in another room and my parents won't allow me to a) move it and b) have a cable that long going to it

Update 2:

OK I dont care that ethernet is better, I just want my wireless adapter sorted :L

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

The USB connection is not the problem.

Wireless connections suck for online gaming.

Although WiFi is convenient for mobility, wireless interference can cause it's connection speed and quality to vary wildly.

Wireless signals are affected by many factors including wall density, electrical interference, directional antenna range, etc.

As wireless connection quality varies the connection speeds are renegotiated. The WiFi connection between your device and the wireless router may start at 300 Mbps and end up at less than 10 Mbps or drop entirely.

Often signal strength (bars) displayed by your device can be misleading, WiFi interference can cause havoc with consistent speed and connections.

Another problem with online gaming is high latency. Your latency (ping) may be 30 ms and wireless interference could cause it to spike to 200 ms or more.

You should try to centrally locate your wireless router or gateway up high and away from dense walls and electrical and 2.4 GHz wireless interference such as microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, etc.

You could also try adjusting the position of the router or relocating your device closer to the wireless router to obtain a stronger signal.

That being said,

For serious gaming or video streaming your best bet is a direct Ethernet connection. Ethernet is unaffected by wireless interference and will give you a rock solid, stable network connection.

If it is not feasible to run Ethernet cable the next best option would be a set of powerline network adapters http://isp1.us/reviews/netgear-xavb2101-powerline-adapter/

You plug one in by your router and one in the room where you need access and connect them to the devices with standard Ethernet patch cables. The network signals are transmitted over your existing home electrical wiring which will not be affected by wireless interference. There is still overhead in the connection but it is much more stable than WiFi.

I would try temporarily plugging your device into the router via a Ethernet cable.

If your game still lags, video buffers, Internet connection drops, etc., with a direct connection, then the best router or connection type in the world won't help, you'll need to upgrade your Internet service plan or switch to a faster ISP.

Good Luck...

jorrit · Answer

FOR THE SAKE OF EVERYBODY

if you want to play online games, USE WIRED INTERNET

Don't be that one dick who constantly disconnects, if you wanna play, get your **** together

Trending News

Why does my internet keep cutting out?

2 Answers