Intel Centrino Wireless N-100 - bad WIFI range

[JHebb]

I'm having the the Aspire 5749 for many years and WIFI went always smoothly. However, I see some degradation in the coverage/range of my WIFI.

After the years, I've noticed I only reach 1,5 Mbps when being 5m from my router. When I'm just next to the router, I can get 35 Mbps download. During those years, an upgrade to Windows 10 has been performed so I first thought it could be a driver issue. But then I booted an Ubuntu 17.04 Live CD, and I'm experiencing the same issue -> only 1,5 Mbps download speed. So it's definitely not a driver issue. When I do the same test with another laptop/my smartphone, I do get fast download speed - so it's also not a problem related to the router.

Can a WIFI card get 'damaged' after years being used? I've never heard this story, but it's like I'm facing it right now ...

[idata · Accepted solution]

Hello jochenhebbrecht,

We understand that your PC uses the Intel® Centrino® Wireless-N 100 and is getting slow speeds when you move it away from the access point. Here are a couple items for your consideration:- Try disabling Blueooth* in the PC, as it often helps with WiFi connectivity. WiFi adapters can receive interference from other electric devices, such as Bluetooth peripherals, wireless phones and controllers, microwave ovens, etc.- Wireless adapters can get damaged over time, same as other electronic components. In this case, we advise you to check with the https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/topics/OEMs.html Computer Manufacturer Support, or its authorized service provider. Make sure that the adapter and antennas are properly connected to the system.- The Intel® Centrino® Wireless-N 100 is not supported with Windows® 10, so it may or may not work properly in this configuration: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/network-and-i-o/wireless-networking/000005602.html Supported Operating Systems for Intel® Wireless Products.- The N 100 has been discontinued and reached End of Interactive Support, therefore, the support options for it are limited: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/network-and-i-o/wireless-networking/000006507.html Customer Support Options for Discontinued Intel® Wireless ProductsRegards.Jonathan B.

[JHebb]

Hi Jonathan,

Thanks for your reply.

I will try disabling the Bluetooth, might work! I'll come back to you once tested.

Jochen

[idata]

Hello jochenhebbrecht,

We will be waiting for updates, or in case you have any further questions after going through the previous recommendations.Regards,Jonathan B.

[idata]

Hello jochenhebbrecht,

We hope our recommendations were helpful. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.Regards,Jonathan B.

[JHebb]

I also accepted the first answer as this answersed my question. Thanks!

[JHebb]

Sorry Jonathan for my late reply!

The laptop doesn't have a Bluetooth interface, so disabling will not help.

We're going to replace the WIFI card to see if that will solve the issue.

[idata]

Hello jochenhebbrecht,

We are glad to be of help. Feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.Regards,Jonathan B.