internet connection and speed fluctuate

[hiker99]

I recently switched from ethernet connection to wireless  (ATT uverse). the router is about 100' away from my desktop and in another room, and it is not practical to get the two any closer.  My signal strength reads low and sometimes disconnects, and speed is often very slow, at other times speedtest about 25 mbs.  Using a laptop in same location, always good signal and speeed.  Diagnostic tests of wireless adapter (RealTek) say it  is working normally and driver is up to date.  On the ATT side, they say the signal is maximized.

So I think the problem is with the wireless adapter, but....should I go for a range extender, a new wireless adapter, or

a usb plug in new adapter??

[hiker99 · Accepted solution]

My assessment was correct...the card, while functioning, was 'weak'. Problem solved by installing a Netgear Nighthawk

AC1900 wifi USB Adapter.  Install was easy, works great.