How to Get Gigabit Ethernet Speed in Windows 10

To get gigabit Ethernet in Windows 10, first check your speed: open Network Connections, double-click Ethernet, and look at Speed. If it says 100.0 Mbps instead of 1.0 Gbps, set Speed & Duplex to Auto Negotiation in the adapter’s properties, then check the cable and the router port.

Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 28, 2026.

Check your Ethernet speed

1. Press Windows key + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Double-click Ethernet.
3. Look at Speed. 1.0 Gbps means gigabit is working.

This is the speed between your PC and the router, not your internet speed. Your internet plan may be slower.

Set Speed & Duplex to Auto Negotiation

1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your Ethernet adapter, and select Properties.
3. On the Advanced tab, select Speed & Duplex.
4. Set Value to Auto Negotiation, then select OK.

If Auto Negotiation still gives 100 Mbps, try 1.0 Gbps Full Duplex. If the connection drops, set it back to Auto Negotiation.

If it still isn’t gigabit

• Check the cable. Gigabit needs a Cat5e, Cat6 or better cable. An old or damaged cable often limits you to 100 Mbps. Try another one.
• Check the other end. The router, switch or wall port must support gigabit.
• Check the adapter. Some older adapters only support 100 Mbps. Its name in Device Manager usually says Gigabit or GbE if it supports it.
• Update the driver. See how to open Device Manager to find it.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my internet still slow at 1.0 Gbps?

Your internet plan or Wi-Fi may be the limit. See how to increase internet speed in Windows 10. To make Windows prefer Ethernet over Wi-Fi, see how to set network priority.

Ethernet isn’t working at all. What should I try?

See how to fix Wi-Fi and network problems in Windows 10.

Microsoft’s reference is Fix Ethernet connection problems in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.

Matt Jacobs

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

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