Increase Download Speed

Ok I have recently made my computer wireless so I can run both my computer and laptop at the same time. I have a 'Belkin 802.11g - 54Mbps'. I assume that I should be getting a connection speed of around about there or as much as my ISP allows. However when i have a look at my current connection speed it says 1 Mbps. When I was on normal wire connection I was geeting about 6 Mbps and I know I am on a Tiscali contract that gives me 8 Mbps.

Is this a problem with the adapter, router, computer etc? or is it to do with me ISP?

Or is it just me being thick when it comes to computers??

If you are kind enough to reply can you use simple computer terms as I don'y understand most terms.

Thanks

Longjohn