A 100M fiber optic connection will deliver up to 100 Mbps on wired devices, but the router can affect wireless speeds and overall network performance.

Wired vs Wireless Performance

For a 100M fiber connection, the maximum wired speed is typically around 90–100 Mbps, depending on the quality of the router, Ethernet cables, and the computer's network card . Upgrading to a gigabit router will not increase wired speeds beyond the 100M limit, because the bottleneck is the fiber service itself, not the router . However, a gigabit router can improve wireless performance, especially if multiple devices are connected simultaneously .

Router Specifications

To ensure optimal performance:

• WAN/LAN Ports: Make sure the router has at least 100 Mbps or gigabit (1000 Mbps) ports. Routers with only 10/100 Mbps ports will cap speeds at 100 Mbps .
• Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) routers provide faster wireless speeds and better coverage. Wi-Fi 6 can theoretically reach up to 9.6 Gbps, though real-world speeds are lower .
• Processor and Features: Routers with stronger processors and features like Multi-Link Operation (MLO) or Quality of Service (QoS) can maintain stable speeds across multiple devices .

Setup Tips

1. Use Ethernet for Maximum Speed: Connect devices directly to the router via Ethernet to achieve near full 100 Mbps speeds .
2. Check Cables: Use at least Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cables to avoid limiting speeds .
3. Router Placement: For wireless devices, place the router centrally and avoid obstructions to maximize Wi-Fi coverage and speed .
4. Verify Port Negotiation: Ensure the router's WAN/LAN ports are set to 1000 Mbps full duplex if using a gigabit router, even if the fiber service is 100M .

Key Takeaway

With a 100M fiber connection, wired devices will reach close to 100 Mbps, and upgrading to a gigabit router mainly benefits wireless performance and future-proofing. The main speed limitations come from the fiber service, the router's port capabilities, and the device's network card . Proper setup and quality equipment ensure you get the most out of your fiber connection.