We recommend periodically using an internet speed test website to verify if you're receiving the speeds promised by your plan. It's beneficial to create a free account with one of the more reliable testing tools to monitor your speed history. This allows you to compare current speeds with past results, providing a comprehensive view of any fluctuations over time. For example, speed tests are available at Testmy.net, M-Lab Internet Speed Test, Fast.com, Speedof.me, and Ookla and dozens of other sites.

Internet speed can be influenced by several factors, including the type of connection (e.g., fiber optic, HFC, coax cable, fixed wireless, satellite), the bandwidth provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), network congestion during peak usage times, the number of devices connected and their activities, the quality and capabilities of your hardware (like routers and modems), interference from other electronic devices, and even physical barriers like walls or distance from the router. Additionally, server speeds of the websites or services you're accessing can also play a role in perceived internet performance. The speed test numbers therefore have several dependencies. Still, run a check periodically.

Ookla

We recommend the Ookla speed test tool due to its consistent performance and longstanding presence online. Beyond its popularity, Ookla offers essential features such as accuracy, a comprehensive speed test history (for registered users), a diverse range of server connections, and a dedicated application for both Android and iOS devices. We also use Ookla when evaluating Wi-Fi routers. Over time, Ookla has innovated by introducing features like a video-specific speed test for assessing 4K video streaming capabilities and incorporating a complimentary VPN in its mobile application. Ookla provides applications for both Windows and Mac operating systems, and it's even available on Apple TV. However, it's worth noting that Ookla displays banner advertisements during basic speed tests, which, depending on your connection's robustness, may marginally influence the results.

Speedof.me

For those seeking a comprehensive evaluation of both speed and consistency, Speedof.me stands as a commendable choice. Analogous to Ookla, its interface adeptly visualizes variations in upload and download speeds, facilitating the identification of potential connection issues. Moreover, Speedof.me retains a record of your results, enabling comparisons over time. Its website is optimized for mobile devices, making it convenient for users to conduct speed assessments on their smartphones without the necessity of an application.

However, Speedof.me does have certain limitations. It does not provide the capability to manually select a specific server for testing. Additionally, for individuals not well-versed in home networking, the detailed data visualization might appear more intricate compared to platforms like Fast.com, which offers a straightforward numeric result.

M-Lab Internet Speed Test

While many speed tests are user-friendly, the M-Lab Internet Speed Test stands out for its accessibility. M-Lab, an abbreviation for Measurement Lab, is an open-source tool developed by a consortium of computer scientists and academic researchers, supported by Google. Notably, it's the primary result when you query "internet speed test" on Google. By simply clicking the "RUN SPEED TEST" button, users can swiftly obtain their download speed, upload speed, and latency.

Its straightforward nature eliminates the need for bookmarks or recalling specific names. The test is free from advertisements during its operation, and the only data shared with M-Lab is the user's IP address. However, it's worth noting that M-Lab does not offer server selection for its tests and is optimized for internet speeds up to 700 Mbps. For those seeking to evaluate a gigabit connection, alternative platforms might be more suitable.

Fast.com

Fast.com is a reputable broadband testing platform, characterized by its user-friendly and direct interface. Notably, it is owned by Netflix, which, while initially unexpected, positions it as an optimal choice for those who frequently stream online. The test is designed to assess whether your connection can support streaming Netflix content at its highest resolution without interruptions. However, while Fast.com is advantageous for specific users, it may not cater to everyone's needs. Despite its intuitive design, it does not offer some of the intricate settings and metrics available in alternative speed tests. For instance, it does not allow users to select a specific server for testing.

Guidelines for Conducting an Internet Speed Assessment

Executing a speed assessment is generally straightforward: locate the test and initiate it. However, to obtain precise and comprehensive results, consider the following recommendations:

Evaluate Both Wired and Wireless Connections: Test your speed two ways: using a wired ethernet connection for actual speeds, and also, using your router’s application to test speed wirelessly. Start with the Ethernet test as your baseline and then compare how a router impacts speed results.

Assess at Multiple Proximities to the Router: The distance from the router can influence wireless connection speeds. Conduct assessments at different locations within your premises to determine the router's coverage and pinpoint any connectivity voids.

Utilize Diverse Devices: Conduct the assessment on various devices, such as PCs, smartphones, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Significant speed variations across devices might necessitate adjustments in device configurations or router settings.

Assess at Varied Times: Peak usage periods, especially during evenings when streaming is prevalent, might impact connection speeds. Periodic assessments throughout the day can help identify optimal connectivity periods, ideal for downloading extensive files.

Understanding Speed Test Categories

Several speed tests provide insights into different facets of your internet connection:

Download and Upload Speeds: These indicate the rapidity of data reception from and transmission to the internet. Browsing or video streaming pertains to download speeds, while sending emails or uploading multimedia corresponds to upload speeds.

Latency or Ping: This measures the duration between a command's issuance and its execution. For instance, in gaming, it's the time between a button press and the resultant action on screen. Elevated latency implies delayed responses.

Jitter: This pertains to the consistency of data flow across network devices. As networks become saturated, data transmission intervals can become erratic, leading to jitter.

Streaming Speed: This evaluates if the internet connection can support high-resolution streaming with minimal interruptions. High bandwidth is essential for seamless video streaming.