Massive consistent latency problems, have tried every fix I can think of or find

Understanding and Addressing Persistent Latency Issues with High-Speed Internet

In today’s digital age, a reliable internet connection is essential, especially for online gaming enthusiasts across the globe. However, even with advanced home internet setups, users can encounter unpredictable latency spikes that disrupt gameplay and online activities. This article explores common causes of such issues, despite attempts at troubleshooting, and offers guidance on how to identify and resolve persistent latency problems.

Case Overview: Persistent High Latency Despite Multiple Fixes

Imagine a user with a subscription to Xfinity’s gigabit internet service, specifically utilizing the XB8 modem/router. The primary concern is frequent and severe latency spikes experienced during online gaming sessions—most notably in the game Destiny 2. The user reports consistent ping surges into the thousands, resulting in disconnections and lag that impair the gaming experience.

Initial Troubleshooting Efforts

Seeking to pinpoint the cause, the user employed a variety of troubleshooting methods:

Relocating Closer to the Router: Attempted to eliminate Wi-Fi signal degradation by repositioning the device physically nearer to the router.
Switching to Wired Connections: Tried connecting via Ethernet cable to improve stability.
Rearranging Physical Infrastructure: Moved the coaxial cable to different rooms to rule out signal issues from the outlet.
Professional Support: Invited multiple Xfinity technicians to conduct network tests and diagnostics.

Despite these efforts, latency spikes persisted, often shooting into the thousands, severely impacting gameplay.

Potential Causes and Considerations

Given that the problem remains unresolved, several factors may be contributing:

Network Congestion or External Factors: Sometimes, high latency arises from network congestion either within the service provider’s infrastructure or during peak usage hours. However, consistent, severe spikes suggest local issues.
Modem/Router Hardware or Firmware: Although the user has recently replaced the modem/router, hardware faults or firmware bugs can still occur. Ensuring the device runs the latest firmware is crucial.
Wi-Fi Hardware or Interference: While the user has tested Wi-Fi, issues with the wireless network adapter or interference from other devices can cause data transmission delays. Testing with a wired connection is preferable for stability.
Network Hardware Compatibility or Faults: The Wi-Fi card or Ethernet adapter in use may be experiencing faults or incompatibilities, though the spikes seen on mobile devices point toward a broader issue.
Network Interference or Poor Cabling: Physical cabling, both coaxial