FIBRE & WI-FI DIAGNOSTICS · MARRAKECH
In brief
If your connection clearly exceeds 100 Mbps with a cable plugged directly into the router, but tops out at around 95–100 Mbps through a wall socket, the internal connection is worth investigating. That observation does not identify the cause: it could be the cable in use, a port, an intermediate device, or the wiring between the room and the communications cabinet. To narrow it down, compare the same components under conditions that are as similar as possible.
First, check what “100” means
On an Ethernet network, the negotiated link speed between two ports and the result of an internet speed test are not the same measurement. A test result close to 100 Mbps may reflect a link negotiated at 100 Mbps, but it can also depend on your internet plan, the test server, the computer or current network traffic. If your device displays it, check the Ethernet link status: “100 Mbps” or “1.0 Gbps”. Menus vary by operating system and network card. 100BASE-TX is a distinct Ethernet standard, not a speed-test result 4.
Auto-negotiation selects a compatible speed between the two connected devices. If one port or one segment in the chain does not support gigabit, the link may come up at 100 Mbps. Ports and intermediate equipment matter just as much as the socket you can see in the room. 2
Compare a direct cable connection with the wall socket
If possible, choose a computer with a gigabit Ethernet port and a cable you know supports gigabit. In Morocco, the retail term “RJ45 network cable” is also commonly used for this type of wired connection 1. Stop downloads and simultaneous tests. First test directly on a LAN port on the router, then test through the wall socket in question, using the same device, the same computer-side cable and the same test service. Note the time and displayed link speed as well as the test result.
Repeat the tests in reverse order or at another quiet time. If the link shows 1 Gbps in both cases but the test results differ, do not immediately conclude that the socket is faulty; check the test conditions and network activity instead. If the direct link reaches 1 Gbps while the wall socket remains at 100 Mbps, the route to that socket warrants a closer check.
Compare several sockets and devices
Repeat the same test on a second socket, then with another gigabit-capable device and a cable known to work. If only one socket is slow, that points more towards its cable, termination or destination port. If all sockets wired in the same way top out at the same speed, look instead at what they share: the lead between the router and communications cabinet, patching equipment or a switch, or the compatibility of their ports. This is an indication, not proof; several devices may also share the same limitation.
In a communications cabinet or rack, inspect only cables and ports that are safely accessible. Check the labels and manual to identify any switch and its capabilities. Equipment limited to 10/100 may explain the speed ceiling, while a gigabit model is needed for a 1 Gbps link. 2 Do not unplug other equipment in the home at random.
When should you suspect the internal wiring?
Gigabit requires a compatible chain, suitable ports and correctly terminated wiring. Intel notes in particular that intermediate cabling and connection components must meet the required category; its documentation also details the relevant pairs and pins. 3 A broken pair, poor contact or incorrect termination can therefore prevent the link from negotiating at the expected speed. The words “Cat 5e” or “Cat 6” on a cable alone do not prove that every connection is sound.
A basic Ethernet tester can help check continuity and wire order, provided you use it according to its instructions and only on a link disconnected from active equipment. A basic tester does not necessarily certify gigabit performance. If you cannot identify the leads or ports, stop at the external comparison and have a qualified person check the patching. Do not open a powered rack.
Who should you share the results with?
Keep a brief record of the room and socket, device, cable, displayed link speed and results from two comparable tests. If the link is fast directly from the router but limited behind the wall network, these observations can help focus a diagnosis of the internal wiring. In Marrakech and nearby areas, an in-home diagnosis can examine the router and internal connections, without guaranteeing a repair or working on the external network.
If the direct test at the router also tops out or is unstable on several devices, the issue may not be limited to the wall wiring. Contact your service provider to check the line and its equipment, and follow its instructions. Do not handle optical fibre or optical connectors.
To continue, also see our guide to preparing for a fibre diagnosis in Marrakech or the in-home fibre diagnosis service.
References and documentation
These general guidelines do not replace your equipment's manual or your provider's instructions. The WifiUrgence diagnostic covers the agreed-upon installation inside the home.
Diagnostic scope and preparation