Shaw Speed Test allows you to accurately measure the speed of your Shaw internet connection. No more guesswork or relying on vague claims from your service provider. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into the performance of your internet connection.
Shaw Internet Plans
Ignite Internet 75: Affordable and Reliable
Starting at just $65 per month on a 2-year ValuePlan, the Ignite Internet 75 plan is an ideal option for those who require a dependable internet connection for everyday tasks. With up to 75 Mbps download and upload speeds, you can easily browse the web, stream your favorite shows, and connect multiple devices without any hassle. Plus, the included Ignite WiFi Gateway modem ensures that your entire household stays connected seamlessly.
For added value, this plan comes with a $50 bill credit and enticing extras such as the Ignite Streaming & Voice Remote, along with 6 months of Disney+ and Sportsnet NOW access. It’s a great option to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Ignite Internet 250: Speed and Entertainment
If you’re a more avid internet user and love to stream high-definition content or engage in online gaming, the Ignite Internet 250 plan might be your match. Priced at $85 per month on a 2-year ValuePlan, this plan offers up to 250 Mbps download and up to 100 Mbps upload speeds. This means smoother streaming, faster downloads, and reduced buffering times.
With the Ignite WiFi Gateway modem, you can connect 8+ devices simultaneously, making it a suitable choice for larger households. And just like the previous plan, you’ll enjoy the Ignite Streaming & Voice Remote, 6 months of Disney+, and Sportsnet NOW access, alongside a $50 bill credit.
Ignite Internet 500: Balanced Performance
For those who crave even more speed and performance, the Ignite Internet 500 plan offers up to 500 Mbps download speeds and up to 100 Mbps upload speeds. Priced at $85 per month on a 2-year ValuePlan, this plan strikes a balance between speed and affordability.
With the capacity to connect 14+ devices, the Ignite WiFi Gateway modem ensures that everyone in your household can enjoy a seamless online experience. As an added bonus, you’ll receive the Ignite Streaming & Voice Remote, 6 months of Disney+, Sportsnet NOW access, and a $50 bill credit.
Ignite Internet Gigabit: Unleash the Power
For those who demand the ultimate internet experience, the Ignite Internet Gigabit plan is the way to go. Priced at $105 per month on a 2-year ValuePlan, this plan offers up to 1 Gbps download speeds, ensuring lightning-fast downloads, ultra-smooth streaming, and seamless online gaming.
With the Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 2 modem, you can connect a whopping 20+ devices using WiFi 6 technology. This is perfect for larger families or households with multiple devices vying for bandwidth. As a cherry on top, you’ll receive the Ignite Streaming & Voice Remote, a full year of Disney+ access, 6 months of Sportsnet NOW, and a $50 bill credit.
Ignite Internet 1.5 Gigabit: Powerhouse Performance
For those who crave unparalleled speed and performance, the Ignite Internet 1.5 Gigabit plan is the pinnacle of Shaw’s offerings. Priced at $115 per month on a 2-year ValuePlan, this plan offers up to 1.5 Gbps download speeds and up to 150 Mbps upload speeds.
The Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 3 modem can handle an astounding 100 devices simultaneously using WiFi 6E technology, making it perfect for households with a multitude of smart devices and heavy internet usage. In addition to the Ignite Streaming & Voice Remote and a $50 bill credit, you’ll enjoy a full year of Disney+ and 6 months of Sportsnet NOW.
What Is Shaw Ignite Internet?
Imagine having access to an internet network that’s not only super fast but also incredibly reliable. That’s what Shaw Ignite Internet offers, thanks to its innovative Fibre-Powered Network. But here’s the kicker: you don’t need to worry about any massive digging operations disrupting your neighborhood.
Unlike some networks that require extensive construction work, the Fibre-Powered Network by Shaw is already woven into the communities it serves. This means no need to tear up driveways or lawns—everything is ready to go.
At the heart of Shaw Ignite Internet lies the hybrid fibre coax network. This may sound a bit technical, but don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple. This network combines the power of fibre optics and coaxial cables to create a potent blend of speed and bandwidth. The result? Faster internet speeds for everyone, not just now, but also in the future. So, whether you’re streaming your favorite movies, battling foes in online games, or simply browsing the web, this network ensures a seamless experience.
The Fibre-Powered Network of Shaw internet stretches across Western Canada, bringing its blazing-fast speeds to homes and businesses alike. From urban hubs to picturesque towns, this network ensures that the digital world is at your fingertips, no matter where you are in the region.
In a world where being connected is essential, Shaw Ignite Internet stands out as a game-changer. With its ready-to-go Fibre-Powered Network, hybrid fibre coax technology, and mind-boggling speeds, it’s reshaping the way we experience the internet. So, if you’re in an area where Rogers operates, consider yourself lucky—you’re in for a digital revolution that’s fast, reliable, and future-proof.
Technology Of Shaw Internet Modems
Shaw’s Ignite WiFi Gateways, including the Gen 2 and Gen 3 models, are prime examples of how technology is driving the evolution of internet modems.
Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 2: Unleashing WiFi 6 Technology
When Rogers is available, Shaw’s Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 2 emerges as a powerful choice. It’s all about WiFi 6 technology – the beating heart of this modem that drives higher performance, faster speeds, and remarkably low latency. But what exactly does WiFi 6 bring to the table?
Picture this: dual-band capability that operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This smart design handles increased capacity and faster speeds, ensuring that all your online activities, from streaming to gaming, are as smooth as butter. Moreover, WiFi 6’s improved IoT support means it’s got your back when it comes to managing a plethora of smart home devices.
Keeping things simple and convenient, the Ignite HomeConnect App compatibility lets you manage your WiFi network from anywhere. And let’s not forget the eight antennas (four each for 2.4GHz and 5GHz), which effectively broaden your WiFi’s range and coverage. Plus, with four Ethernet ports (including one at 2.5 Gbps and three at 1 Gbps), you’ve got plenty of room to plug in your wired devices.
Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 3: Embracing the Future with WiFi 6E
As technology advances at lightning speed, Shaw’s Ignite WiFi Gateway Gen 3 steps in, future-proofing your home connectivity with WiFi 6E. This is where the magic happens – by connecting more devices simultaneously than ever before.
Now, let’s dive into the technical specifics. Tri-band technology, covering 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz frequencies, steps up to support up to a whopping 100 devices. But the real star here is the new 6GHz band, ensuring that WiFi 6E-compatible devices receive speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps and beyond.
What sets the Gen 3 apart is its built-in IoT support, creating a seamless environment for all your smart home devices, including compatibility with Zigbee and Matter. Convenience reigns once again with the Ignite HomeConnect App, offering easy WiFi network management from wherever you are.
Imagine a whopping 24 antennas (four for 2.4GHz, four for 5GHz, and four for 6GHz) working in harmony to provide extensive coverage. Whether you’re in the living room, bedroom, or even your backyard, your WiFi connection remains strong. Plus, with those trusty four Ethernet ports (one at 2.5 Gbps and three at 1 Gbps), you’re ready to plug in your devices without a hiccup.
Shaw Internet Slow Speed Troubleshooting
1. Restart your modem and wireless devices
A common fix for many WiFi or connection issues is a simple restart of your modem. Use the My Shaw or Ignite HomeConnect App to restart your modem. Alternatively, follow these three easy steps: unplug the power cable, wait for 30 seconds, then reconnect the power cable. Within a few minutes, your WiFi network should reappear on your wireless devices, allowing you to check if the issue is resolved.
Also, consider restarting your wireless devices as they can sometimes cause common problems like lags or loss of internet access. Consult your device manual for information on performing a standard restart.
2. Optimize WiFi by checking for interference
WiFi quality relies on various factors such as range, interference, network selection, and device capabilities. To optimize your WiFi network, follow these tips from our article on optimizing your WiFi experience.
Slow speeds, dead spots, and difficulty loading websites or making video calls may indicate interference from other wireless networks, devices using the same frequencies, or high-voltage devices emitting electromagnetic interference.
Keep in mind that materials and objects in your home can also affect your WiFi coverage and signal strength. For example, different building materials can absorb or block WiFi signals to varying extents. Refer to the chart below for common examples of signal loss through various materials:
| Building Material Type | 2.4 GHz Signal Loss | 5 GHz Signal Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall | 15-20% | 20-25% |
| Wood (Door) | 15-20% | 29-34% |
| Glass (Clear) | 10-15% | 29-40% |
| Glass (2 Pane Coated) | 62% | 96% |
| Brick/Concrete | 29-85% | 50-100% |
| Fire Exit Door | 62-91% | 96-100% |
If you have an Ignite WiFi Gateway, it will automatically sort devices between the two frequencies to provide optimal speeds. Remember, some devices may only support the 2.4 GHz frequency, so refer to your device manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
3. Modem placement and coverage
The location of your modem within your home is crucial for WiFi coverage and stability. For better coverage, place your modem in a central location, especially if you have an open floor plan house. Alternatively, position your modem near the area where the internet is used most frequently. Avoid placing your modem in basements, cabinets, or behind objects that can obstruct the WiFi signal.
To prevent interference, keep your modem away from household appliances, metal objects, and electrical equipment. If needed, you can further extend your WiFi network by utilizing Ignite WiFi Pods or similar devices.
4. Check your connections
Loose connections, damaged cables, and line splitters can impair your internet signal even before it reaches your modem, resulting in slower speeds. Ensure that your cables are properly connected by following these steps:
- Unplug the power cable from the back of the Shaw modem.
- Unscrew the coaxial cable from the back of the modem and inspect it for damage.
- Follow the coaxial cable to the cable jack on the wall and check for any additional devices like splitters.
- Temporarily remove the splitter if present and directly connect the coaxial cable to the modem.
- Reconnect the coaxial and power cables to the modem and wait for it to come back online.
- If applicable, check and replace damaged Ethernet cables for a reliable wired connection.
For the most reliable connection, use at least a cat 5e Ethernet cable (cat 6 for Shaw’s Gig speed Internet packages).
5. Run an Internet speed test
If you want to measure the speed of your Shaw Internet connection accurately, you can use the Shaw Speed Test website. Remember, the speed to your home will be higher than the connection from the modem to your device over WiFi. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Close all applications, disconnect VPNs, and pause downloads, video streams, or picture uploads before running the speed test.
- If possible, connect your device directly to the modem with an Ethernet cable to bypass any obstructions caused by intermediate devices like third-party routers.
- If you’re using WiFi, be within 10 feet of the modem and connect to the 5 GHz wireless network if it is visible.
- Run the test multiple times and record the average download and upload speeds.
6. Evaluate bandwidth usage
If you have multiple devices connected to your home WiFi network, it’s important to consider how they may be affecting your internet speeds. When multiple devices are simultaneously using the network for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming or downloading, it can cause slower speeds for all devices.
To address this issue:
- Assess the number of devices connected to your WiFi network.
- Identify and monitor the devices that are utilizing a significant amount of bandwidth.
- Consider closing WiFi-connected apps and reducing the number of devices using a high amount of data.
- Check if the performance improves for the devices that remain connected.
If you frequently experience slow speeds due to bandwidth limitations, you might want to explore upgrading your Shaw Internet plan to accommodate your needs. Check out the latest Internet plans on the Shaw website to find a package that suits you best.
7. Restore modem settings
In rare cases, restoring your modem to its factory settings can help resolve persistent issues. This step will reset any custom settings you’ve made, including your WiFi network name and password (found on the sticker on your modem). Follow these instructions to restore your modem:
- Locate the small pinhole reset button on the back of your Shaw modem.
- Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the button for 15 seconds.
- Watch as the modem lights flash and remain lit after a few moments.
- Within a few minutes, your WiFi network should reappear on your wireless devices. Test the connection by connecting a device to WiFi.
Note: Resetting your modem will impact your access to the Internet using your wireless network name and password. You should try this step after you have tried above steps.
Does Shaw Throttle Internet Speeds?
Throttling is the practice of intentionally slowing down or limiting the bandwidth of certain types of traffic, such as peer-to-peer file sharing or streaming services. Throttling can be done by the internet service provider (ISP) or by the application itself. The main reasons for throttling are to manage network congestion, to prevent excessive usage, or to prioritize certain types of traffic over others.
According to Shaw’s Internet Traffic Management Policy, Shaw does not throttle or shape any specific protocols or applications, except for peer-to-peer uploads during times of network congestion.
Shaw claims that this practice is necessary to ensure a fair and consistent experience for all customers, and that it only affects a small percentage of users who are uploading large amounts of data. Shaw also states that it does not throttle or shape any downstream traffic (i.e., downloads), and that it does not discriminate against any lawful content or services.
However, some customers have disputed Shaw’s claims and accused the company of throttling their internet speeds without their consent or knowledge.
For example, in a Shaw Support forum, a customer complained that their Shaw 300 plan was consistently delivering speeds below 40 Mbps, with upload speeds capped at 1 Mbps or less. The customer said that they had tried all the troubleshooting steps suggested by Shaw, including replacing the modem, but nothing solved the issue.
The customer also said that they had contacted Shaw several times, but received no satisfactory explanation or solution. The customer eventually switched to another ISP and reported much faster and stable speeds.
Another example is a CBC News article from 2009, which reported that Rogers and Shaw were throttling internet speeds for customers who were using online video services such as Netflix or Hulu. The article cited a study by the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC), which found that Rogers and Shaw were reducing the bandwidth of these services by up to 80%, resulting in poor video quality and buffering issues. The article also quoted a Rogers spokesperson who admitted that the company was throttling certain types of traffic, but argued that this was beneficial for customers because it prevented network congestion and ensured a high-quality service.
These examples suggest that Shaw may have throttled internet speeds for some customers in the past, either deliberately or unintentionally, and that this may have affected their satisfaction and performance.
However, it is not clear how widespread or frequent this practice is, or whether it still occurs today. Therefore, if you are a Shaw customer and you suspect that your internet speed is being throttled, you may want to do the following:
- Test your internet speed using a reliable internet speed test tool. Compare your results with your plan’s advertised speed and with other ISPs in your area.
- Check your usage and data cap on your Shaw account. If you exceed your monthly limit, you may experience slower speeds or additional charges.
- Contact Shaw customer support and ask them to explain your speed issues and provide a solution. Be polite but firm, and request a written confirmation of their response.
- If you are not satisfied with Shaw’s service or response, you may want to consider switching to another ISP that offers better speeds, prices, or customer service.
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