Router Specs

MEC delivers 5 Gbps service through a Wi-Fi-enabled router with four 1-Gig Ethernet ports and one 10-Gig Ethernet port.

Bridge service is available through the 10-Gig Ethernet port. You may use your own router with a 5-Gig or greater RJ-45 copper Ethernet WAN port. We do not have a residential fiber handoff at this time. Here are the recommended router specs:

• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) compatibility or above 
• Dual-band or quad-band networking 
• 10-Gigabit Ethernet port (minimum 2 ports) or above 
• Minimum one 5GBASE-T RJ-45 (Ethernet) for 5 Gig 
• Minimum one 10GBASE-T RJ-45 (Ethernet) for 8 Gig 
• WPA2 security protocols or above 

Devices 

No matter how fast your internet is, it can only be as fast as your device. New devices are faster than older ones, but no single device is capable of achieving 5 Gbps, just yet. The primary benefit of 5 Gbps speed is that each device can utilize its maximum capability when they’re all connected at the same time.

Ideally, you want devices that Wi-Fi 6 or 7 compatible to get the best experience, regardless if your internet speed. Click here to check your devices’ internet capabilities. 

Always update your devices with the latest available firmware as well. You can set many devices to automatically update for you.

Wired Connections Are Faster 

• Ethernet connections are always faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. To ensure the fastest speed possible on a specific device, use an Ethernet connection.
• Your device should have Ethernet ports that can handle 5 Gbps or higher. If they don’t, an adapter, also known as a dongle, rated at 5 Gbps or higher, can do the trick (just make sure it’s compatible with your device before you buy).  
• You’ll also need an Ethernet cable labeled as Cat6a or greater. This information is usually printed on the side of the cable. 

Wi-Fi 

Wi-Fi has many more limitations when it comes to speed. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Devices using Wi-Fi will have the best experience using Wi-Fi 6 or 7, but no device will reach 5 Gbps on Wi-Fi.

• Signals from other devices like baby monitors, microwaves, garage door openers, and more can mess with your Wi-Fi signal. Building materials can also interfere. When possible, turn off any unnecessary devices, and make sure there’s nothing blocking your router. 
• The closer your device is to your router, the faster its Wi-Fi signal typically is. If your Wi-Fi connection seems slower than usual, try moving closer to your router. 
• Outdated or poorly installed wiring could limit the speed and performance of your connection. 

Final Tip 

Our 5 Gbps is intended to help ensure that all connected devices benefit simultaneously from really high speeds. If you have further questions, we recommend contacting an IT expert or us.