Metronet’s 5Gbps/5Gbps fiber internet plan offers impressive speeds that are perfect for data-heavy activities such as 4K video streaming, cloud-based gaming, large file transfers, and supporting multiple connected devices in large households. However, many users find that speed tests don’t always reflect the full potential of 5Gbps. This discrepancy often stems from the limitations of network hardware rather than the service itself.
Why Speed Tests Don’t Reach 5Gbps
Most speed testing results fall short of the advertised 5Gbps because typical home networking equipment isn’t built to handle such high speeds. Many consumer routers and devices have Ethernet ports that max out at 1Gbps, which creates a bottleneck. For example, if your router’s Ethernet port is only capable of 1Gbps, the maximum speed you’ll see is capped at that limit, even if your internet service is theoretically much faster.
In addition, many users test their speeds over Wi-Fi, which, even with modern standards like Wi-Fi 6 or 6E, struggles to reach speeds anywhere near 5Gbps due to signal interference, range limitations, and device compatibility. For users aiming to take full advantage of the 5Gbps plan, wired connections using the right hardware are crucial.
Routers with 10GbE Ports
To reach the full potential of Metronet’s 5Gbps service, you’ll need a router equipped with a 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) port. Here are some examples of routers that can handle these speeds:
- Netgear Nighthawk RAX200
- This high-end router supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes a 10GbE port, making it a strong option for users looking to maximize their wired and wireless speeds.
- Asus RT-AX89X
- This model features dual 10GbE ports (one for Ethernet and one for SFP+), along with support for Wi-Fi 6. It’s ideal for advanced home networking setups and future-proofing against further speed upgrades.
- Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine Pro
- A more advanced option designed for prosumers and small businesses, this router includes a 10GbE SFP+ port and robust network management features. It’s a great choice for users needing more control over their network.
- MikroTik CCR2004-1G-12S+2XS
- This is a solid option for users who need enterprise-grade routing at home. It has multiple 10GbE ports and extensive configuration options for network performance.
Need for a 10GbE Ethernet Port
Most consumer routers are limited to 1Gbps Ethernet ports, which can’t handle speeds beyond 1Gbps. If you’re subscribed to Metronet’s 5Gbps plan, upgrading to a router with a 10GbE port is necessary to fully utilize your connection. Without a 10GbE port, your speed test results and actual download/upload performance will be bottlenecked, leaving a significant portion of your bandwidth unused.
In addition to the router, your PC, laptop, or any connected device must also have a 10GbE-capable network adapter to experience the full speeds. Ethernet cables rated Cat6a or higher are recommended for connecting devices to your router to support these speeds.
CGNAT and Static IP
Metronet uses CGNAT (Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation) for IP address management. While this helps them efficiently allocate IP addresses across many customers, CGNAT can cause problems for certain users, especially those who need port forwarding or require a public IP address for activities like hosting servers, gaming with specific configurations, or accessing home security systems remotely.
To overcome these limitations, you can request a static IP address from Metronet. A static IP ensures that your IP address doesn’t change over time, which is important for remote access and specific business or gaming needs. It also bypasses CGNAT, allowing direct access to your home network, improving reliability for services that require a constant and public-facing IP address.
Conclusion
While Metronet’s 5Gbps service offers incredible potential for high-speed internet, the true experience hinges on having the right hardware. To fully utilize these speeds, you’ll need a router with a 10GbE Ethernet port, devices that support these speeds, and the proper network infrastructure, including Ethernet cables and adapters. For users who need advanced network configurations or remote access, requesting a static IP address is crucial to avoid the limitations of CGNAT. With the right setup, you can enjoy the full benefits of Metronet’s ultra-fast fiber service.