Many users often confuse the maximum speed stated by the provider in the contract with the actual performance of the wireless network inside the apartment. When you connect MGTSThe contract may state 500 Mbps or even 1 Gbps, but on a smartphone in a distant room, the speed may drop to 50-100 Mbps. This doesn't always indicate equipment failure or problems on the operator's end.
Modern technologies such as GPON, allow for the transmission of massive amounts of data over fiber optics, but the last mile—transmitting the signal over the air—often becomes a bottleneck. Understanding what counts normal indicator For your specific use case, it will help you avoid unnecessary calls to technical support or, conversely, promptly identify a real problem with the channel.
The impact of GPON technology and tariff plan on speed
Provider MGTS actively uses technology GPON (Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Network), which delivers fiber optic cable directly to your apartment. This ensures stability and low latency, but the final WiFi speed depends on the selected plan. If your plan limits the speed to 100 Mbps, no amount of router settings will allow you to get 300 Mbps.
It's important to distinguish between the physical bandwidth of a channel and the actual data transfer rate. The optical network terminal (ONT) installed by the technician during connection may have a gigabit port, but if you're using an older router with ports Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps), you will physically cut the speed to 90-95 Mbps.
For comfortable use in 2026-2026, it is recommended to choose plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or higher. This provides sufficient capacity when multiple devices are connected to the network simultaneously.
⚠️ Attention: The speed at the entrance to the router (via cable from the ONT terminal) and the speed at the exit (via WiFi) can differ by 30-50% due to protocol overhead and radio signal quality.
In addition, it is worth considering that the provider may provide a service with dynamic speed changes or have restrictions during peak hours, although for GPON This is less typical than with older access technologies.
Real-world WiFi speeds in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands
Most modern routers issued MGTS (For example, Keenetic, Eltex or Sagemcom), operate in two frequency ranges. Understanding the difference between them is critical to assessing the "normality" of your speed.
The 2.4 GHz band is outdated for high-speed connections. Due to high congestion (from neighboring routers, Bluetooth, and microwave ovens), actual speeds here rarely exceed 40-60 Mbps, even if your plan allows for higher speeds. This is a bottleneck for the modern internet.
The 5 GHz band is the standard for high speeds. It's common to get 300-400 Mbps and higher on devices that support the standard. WiFi 5 (AC) And WiFi 6 (AX)If the speed in this range drops below 100 Mbps within line of sight, it's time to consider replacing the router or checking for interference.
For clarity, let's compare the expected indicators:
- 📶 2.4 GHz: Normal 20-50 Mbps (only for smart home and surfing).
- 🚀 5 GHz (WiFi 5): Normal 200-400 Mbps (4K video, games).
- ⚡ 5 GHz (WiFi 6): Normal 500-800+ Mbps (downloading large files, VR).
Usage channel width 80 MHz or 160 MHz in the router settings also directly affects the final figure in speed tests.
Speed requirements for different use cases
The concept of "normal" speed is subjective and depends on what you do online. For one user, 50 Mbps is stratospheric, while for another, 300 Mbps may not be enough.
To watch 4K video, streaming services (Netflix, YouTube) recommend a bandwidth of at least 25 Mbps per device. However, if a family simultaneously watches TV, plays online games, and downloads files, the requirements are cumulative.
Online games (shooters, MOBA) are less demanding in terms of bandwidth (10-20 Mbps is enough), but are critical to the parameter Ping (delay). What's more important here is the stability of the connection, which is provided MGTS via fiber optics, than the maximum download figure.
Modern use cases require more and more resources:
- 🎮 Online gaming: Stable 30-50 Mbps, Ping < 30 ms.
- 📺 4K HDR Streaming: 25-50 Mbps per device.
- 💻 Remote work (Zoom/Teams): 10-20 Mbps (upload stability is important).
- 🏠 Smart Home + Downloads: 100+ Mbps for background tasks.
If you have a smart home with dozens of sensors and cameras, they create constant background traffic that must also be taken into account when calculating the required bandwidth.
Factors that reduce WiFi signal speed in an apartment
Even with the ideal tariff from MGTSThe physics of radio waves plays a role. A WiFi signal doesn't travel through walls as easily as it does through air. The thickness of walls, the presence of metal reinforcement in panel buildings, and mirrors can significantly weaken the signal.
Interference is another speed killer. In apartment buildings, dozens of neighbors' routers operate on the same frequencies, creating a clutter of signals. This is especially true for the 2.4 GHz band, which has only 13 non-overlapping channels.
Finishing materials also matter. Tinted glass with a metallic coating, aquariums, and mirrors act as screens, reflecting or absorbing radio waves. In such cases, the speed in the far room can drop significantly compared to the room where the router is located.
⚠️ Attention: Placing the router in a niche, behind a TV, or on the floor significantly reduces the effective signal range. The optimal location is in the center of the apartment, at a height of 1.5-2 meters.
It's also worth remembering that older devices (smartphones 5-7 years old) may physically not support high Wi-Fi speeds, even if the router is modern. Their network adapters simply aren't capable of handling data flows faster than a certain limit.
How to correctly measure MGTS internet speed
To obtain objective data, simply opening a browser and running a test isn't enough. Third-party factors must be eliminated. First and foremost, testing should be performed using a device connected via cable to understand the actual download speed from the provider.
To test your WiFi connection speed, stand 1-2 meters away from the router. Make sure no other devices are downloading large files or updates. Use trusted services such as Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com.
When taking measurements, pay attention not only to Download but also Upload. This parameter is equally important for video calls and cloud backups. On networks GPON Upload speed is usually symmetrical or 50% of download speed.
☑️ Speed test
Run the test several times at different times of day. In the evening, when the load on your provider's network and neighboring WiFi networks is highest, speeds may be lower than during the day.
Comparison of router specifications provided by MGTS
Providers often offer their own branded routers for rent or sale. Understanding their specifications helps determine what to expect from the network. Basic models are often limited to 100 Mbps ports, making them unsuitable for plans above 100 Mbps.
More advanced models such as Keenetic Ultra or top versions Sagemcom, support gigabit ports and standard WiFi 6They can unlock the potential of 500 Mbps and 1 Gbps plans. When selecting equipment, always check the WAN/LAN port specifications.
Below is a table for comparing the equipment potential:
| Equipment type | WAN/LAN ports | Max. WiFi speed (real) | Standards support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (old) | 100 Mbps | 40-60 Mbps | WiFi 4 (N) |
| Average (AC) | 1 Gbps | 200-350 Mbps | WiFi 5 (AC) |
| Top (AX) | 1 Gbps / 2.5G | 500-800+ Mbps | WiFi 6 (AX) |
| ONT Terminal | 1 Gbps | Depends on the model | Different |
If your router is of the first type and your plan is higher than 100 Mbps, you're overpaying for unused resources. In this case, it might be worth considering purchasing your own modern router.
Why is WiFi speed always lower than cable speed?
The WiFi protocol is half-duplex, meaning a device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive data on the same frequency. Furthermore, some of the channel is consumed by overhead information, error checking, and retransmission of lost packets. Therefore, the efficiency of a wireless connection is always 60-70% of the theoretical maximum.
When upgrading your home's technology, make sure your new gadgets support modern communication standards, otherwise you won't notice the difference from your expensive router.
Network optimization and troubleshooting
If your speed readings show significantly lower than expected, don't rush to blame your provider. Often, the problem can be solved with software adjustments. The first step should always be a hardware reboot: unplug the router and ONT terminal from the power outlet for 10-15 seconds, then plug them back in.
The second step is to analyze the airwaves. Go to your router settings (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and try manually changing the WiFi channel. Automatic channel selection doesn't always work correctly in densely populated areas.
For the 5 GHz band, it makes sense to check the channel width. Setting the value 20/40/80 MHz may give a speed boost, but in a very "noisy" air it is better to fix it 40 MHz for stability, sacrificing peak speed.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff plans and service specifications are subject to change. Always check the latest information about your tariff and equipment capabilities in your MGTS subscriber account or the official app.
In complex situations, such as an apartment with multiple rooms and thick walls, a single router may not be sufficient. Consider building a mesh system to create a single, seamless network throughout the entire home.
Regularly updating your router's firmware is another important aspect. Manufacturers frequently release patches that improve the stability of the wireless module and fix security vulnerabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the WiFi speed half of what is stated in the contract?
The contract speed is specified for a wired connection. WiFi is a wireless technology that loses some speed due to distance, walls, interference from neighboring networks, and the router's own specifications. A 30-50% speed loss on a wireless connection is considered normal.
Do I need to change my router if I switched to a 500 Mbps plan?
Yes, it's required. If your current router has 100 Mbps ports (Fast Ethernet), it will physically throttle the speed to 90-95 Mbps. The 500 Mbps plan requires a router with gigabit ports (1000 Mbps) and support for WiFi 5 (AC) or WiFi 6 (AX).
Does the MGTS ONT terminal model affect WiFi speed?
Yes, it does. Basic terminals often have a weak Wi-Fi module, designed only for use in one room. For larger apartments and higher speeds, it's recommended to switch the terminal to "bridge" mode and use a separate, powerful router.
How do I know what speed I need for my smart home?
Most smart home devices (lamps, outlets) consume minimal bandwidth (less than 1 Mbps). IP surveillance cameras generate the largest load. A single HD camera can consume 2-4 Mbps continuously. Add up the bandwidth requirements of all active devices.