A new Apple Knowledge base document notes that Wi-Fi data rates will not exceed 54 Mbps when using WEP or WPA. The note suggests switching to WPA2 connectivity for faster speeds. This switch may work to resolve iPad Wi-Fi speed issues, as noted in our iPad Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide.
Apple’s Knowledge base document states:
“To allow the maximum 802.11n rates, ensure that your router or Wi-Fi Base Station is configured to use WPA2 or, alternatively, no password. For security purposes, it is recommended that you select WPA2 Personal when configuring your Wi-Fi Base Station. Note: AirPort Utility will not allow you to select WEP or WPA as an 802.11n option. It will only let you select WPA/WPA2 Personal or WPA2 Personal for general home use.”
For AirPort base stations, this setting can be switched using the AirPort Utility. For third-party routers, follow these steps:
- Login to your router’s configuration page by opening a browser window and entering the address 192.168.1.1 (you may need to enter the username and password, which by default for many routers are: username: admin and password: password1)
- Change the security setting to WPA2
- Apply the changes, which will cause your router to reset
Feedback? info@appletoolbox.com.