[SOLVED] Why is download speed 10X faster with VPN?

[vpx23]

Go to the plugins, install the Realtek vendor driver (os-realtek-re), reboot OPNsense and do the benchmark again.

[cookiemonster]

Go to the plugins, install the Realtek vendor driver (os-realtek-re), reboot OPNsense and do the benchmark again.

Why? I don't see a realtek-based controller on his setup.

[Johnborrowman]

For what it's worth, I went ahead and installed them anyways. I rebooted the router as well for good measure, but don't see any difference in the download speed.

[cookiemonster]

You don't seem to have an interface that would use that driver, so is unsurprising to make no difference.
I picture it as this attachment, I find it easier to get help when instead of a thousand words..
If I were you I would be verifying speeds at each point, i.e. A is done, then C and E by putting the laptop where possible. The SPF link would be of interest.

[vpx]

The TP-Link TX201 has a Realtek RTL8125 controller. It was worth a try but obviously it wasn't the cause.

[cookiemonster]

you know I was certain when I looked that it wasn't RTL but Intel based. I must have looked in the wrong place or the link was wrong, as I can see an RTL reference. You're right.
OP - it would be a good idea therefore to stay with this driver for now.

[Johnborrowman]

I tested at all of those points as recommended with no conclusive results, so I went ahead and contacted Xfinity to cover all bases. Turns out one of the underground cable lines is corrupted/severely water damaged, but the VPN coincidentally forces traffic over the only 2 channels on the line which happen to be intact.

The entire house download speed has dropped to below 50Mbps without the VPN, but they'll be tearing up the yard and replacing the cable shortly.

Thanks all for the help!