Wi-Fi is 30% slower than fixed broadband

Web users relying on Wi-Fi networks rather than fixed broadband connections to access the web experience slower speeds, says Epitiro.

The research firm conducted more than a million tests of some 14,000 Wi-fi connections in the UK, as well as Spain, Italy and the US. On average, Wi-Fi connections were 30 percent slower than fixed connections.

The firm said it was "surprised" at how high the reduction in speed was but that many consumers wouldn't notice the difference, while others were happy to accept slower speeds because of the convenience offered by Wi-Fi.

"People are voting with their feet and trading speed for the benefits of mobility," said Iain Wood from Epitirio.

"Most of us do emailing and web surfing and for these things there is precious little difference between the 50Mbps services and an 8Mbps service."

However, Wood said those using VoIP service such as Skype and using the web to watch TV would notice the difference.

"There seems to be a disconnect between the ISPs striving to deliver faster speeds and consumers who are happy to accept slower Wi-Fi speeds."

Wood advised those unhappy with the speed they're achieving to can change the channel on their router, as many users rely on the same channel, as well as removing devices such as baby monitors and TV remotes, which can cause interference.

Wi-Fi and networking newsSee all networking hardware reviews

See also: How to speed up your network

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