Upload times

[DanL]

In my network, I upload files to two machines - both running 10.11.6. One, a MacBook Pro, and another an older Mac mini. It takes fully TWICE as long to upload to the former as to the latter. Now, the latter is somewhat closer to the router than the former, but each shows four bars on the network connection. What might be the cause of this difference? If because the network connection isn't as good in one versus the other, what's a more accurate measure of the network bandwidth for a given machine?

 

[Cory Cooper]

Hello,

The speeds should be similar, but it can vary depending on hardware, network settings, signal strength, etc.

-What are the exact models of the MBP and mini?
-What versions of Mac OX/macOS?
-Have you tries an Internet speed test on both? I know it's not a local test of your network's speed, but it may replicate the speed difference?

C

 

[DanL]

MacBook Pro early 2011 8,1
Mini late 2009 2.26
both at OS 10.11.6

Internet speeds on both are comparable, with the same test. But again, where do I get a good measure of signal strength?

This difference in upload speed is something that I ALWAYS see.

 

[Cory Cooper]

No problem.

If you hold the Option key down while clicking on the Wi-Fi signal in the menu bar, it will give you a lot of information about the signal. You can also access the "hidden" Wireless Diagnostics application.

How to use MacOS Wireless Diagnostics to get the best possible Wi-Fi settings in your area

Check for Wi-Fi issues using your Mac

Hope that helps a bit

C

 

[DanL]

Aha! Got it. I forgot that my Mini was directly hooked up to the router. No wifi. This was clear when I tried to get the RSSI for it. That has to explain it.

 

[Cory Cooper]

Ethernet should be faster than Wi-Fi due to not having the same overhead, which sounds like the case in your scenario.

C