Seagate Duet - Sync is Slower Than Expected

Sometimes the sync process can take longer than expected, this is based on several variables

While using the Seagate Duet device, you may notice the upload or download process is going slower than you expect.  The speed of the upload or download process is determined by several factors listed below:


Internet Speed:

Your Internet speed is dependent on what Internet service providers (ISP) are in your area and what package you purchase from them.  Internet services are typically marketed in both download and upload speeds.  For example, 50Mbps/5Mbps typically means you are getting 50 Megabits download and 5 Megabits upload. Many ISP have speed tests available or searching Internet speed tests should provide other options to test your connection.

Since there are 8 bits in a byte, you would need at least a 8Mbps upload connection to upload at 1 Megabyte per second.  The same information also applies to downloads.  


WiFi vs Ethernet:

A computer connected to a router through Ethernet is typically going to be faster than a computer connected through WiFi. This can be especially true when you have multiple WiFi devices connected to the same router. WiFi has limited range and can be affected by obstacles in the way of the signal such as walls, ceilings, etc. If you have a fast internet speed, but you are still seeing slow uploads to Amazon cloud, we suggest you connect your computer to the router through Ethernet at least during large uploads or downloads.


Other Devices:

You share the available bandwidth with all other connected devices. Meaning if there are other devices that are streaming, or downloading on your network it will affect the speed of your Internet service. 


What can I do to improve my speeds?
  • Connect your computer with the Seagate Duet to your Wi-Fi router using a Gigabit Ethernet (CAT-5E or CAT-6 ) cable.
Note: If your computer has Wi-Fi, make sure you turn it off if you are going to use this method. After you have uploaded the bulk of your data to Amazon Drive, you can reconnect to your router via Wi-Fi. 
  • Reset your network, sometimes rebooting your devices such as computer, modem, and router can resolve issues you are experiencing. 

Wi-Fi network settings tips
  • Make sure that you are using up-to-date hardware (cables, computers, routers, and modems). 
  • Try moving closer to the router. As mentioned earlier, walls, ceilings, or other obstacles can affect the signal strength which may lower your speeds.


Check your Wi-Fi speed on macOS
  1. Press the option key and select the Airport/Wi-Fi icon at the same time.The Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to displays network information in grey text.
  2. Check your RSSI number. The range is 0 – 100, with 0 being the preferred RSSI number. 
Tip: Move your computer closer to your router to improve your RSSI number.


Check your LAN connection settings on Windows Vista/7/8+
  1. Open the Control panel.
  2. Navigate to Network and Sharing Center.
  3. There will be something called Connections. Click on the connection type to see the speed of that connection. 
Connection Type            Network Connection Speed

Gigabit Ethernet         1,000,000,000 (1.0 Gbps)
T100                         100,000,000 (100 Mbps)
Wi-Fi                        < 100,000,000 (100 Mbps)




 
  1. ⁺ For a limited time of March 25, 2024, 10:00AM Pacific Time ("PT") to April 1, 2024 9:59AM PT, all orders placed at the Seagate store at Seagate.com will receive free ground shipping to addresses located within the United States.