Internet speed test guide
Speed tests can be misleading if you don't know what you're looking at. A single test number doesn't tell the whole story, and common mistakes lead to inaccurate results. Here's how to run tests properly and understand what the results actually mean for your internet experience.
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How to run an accurate speed test
For meaningful results, control the variables:
Use a wired connection when possible. Ethernet cables eliminate WiFi as a bottleneck and show what your internet service actually delivers. If you only test over WiFi, you're measuring your wireless network plus your internet, not just your internet.
Close other applications and devices. Background downloads, streaming on other devices, and cloud sync all consume bandwidth and affect results.
Test multiple times at different hours. Internet speeds vary with network congestion. Morning speeds often differ from evening peak hours. One test provides limited information.
Use a reputable testing tool. Speedtest.net by Ookla and fast.com by Netflix are reliable options. Your ISP's own speed test may be optimized for their servers and show inflated results.
Understanding your results
Speed tests produce three main numbers:
Download speed (Mbps) measures how fast data comes to you. This affects streaming video, loading websites, downloading files, and most everyday internet activities. For reference, 4K streaming needs about 25 Mbps; HD streaming needs 5-10 Mbps.
Upload speed (Mbps) measures how fast data leaves your device. This matters for video calls (others seeing you clearly), uploading files, cloud backup, and content creation. Cable internet typically has much lower upload than download speeds; fibre often offers symmetrical speeds.
Latency (milliseconds) measures the delay in data round-trips. Lower is better. High latency causes lag in video calls and online gaming. Under 50ms is good; under 20ms is excellent.
Why results vary from advertised speeds
Advertised speeds are theoretical maximums, and real-world results are typically lower. This is normal, not necessarily a problem.
WiFi introduces overhead, wireless protocols use bandwidth for connection management, reducing effective speed. Physical barriers (walls, floors) and interference from other networks further reduce WiFi performance.
Network congestion during peak hours affects speeds, especially with cable internet where bandwidth is shared among neighbours.
Your router and device also matter. Older routers or devices may not support the speeds your internet provides. A gigabit internet plan won't help if your laptop only has a 100 Mbps network card.
If wired speeds consistently fall significantly short of your plan (below 70-80% of advertised), contact your provider. Occasional dips are normal; persistent underperformance may indicate issues.
Improving your speeds
If speeds disappoint, try these steps:
Reposition your router centrally and away from interference sources (microwaves, cordless phones, other electronics).
Upgrade your router if it's more than 3-4 years old. WiFi 6 routers perform significantly better than older standards.
Use wired connections for stationary devices, gaming consoles, smart TVs, desktop computers. Reserve WiFi for truly mobile devices.
Consider a mesh WiFi system for large homes with coverage issues.
If the underlying internet service is the problem rather than your home network, evaluate whether your current plan meets your needs, or whether switching providers makes sense.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Download speed affects how fast you receive data (streaming, browsing). Upload speed affects how fast you send data (video calls, uploading files). Most people need more download than upload.
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