Do you know how fast your internet speed is?
Well, here is all you need to know about speed tests!
We are more connected to the internet than ever with daily interactions with our smart gadgets such as phones, tablets, laptops and TVs. Today, even our houses have smart wifi- connected lights. That said, a slow internet connection can be a real struggle! We all know very well the frustrations of being unable to load a website, attend a virtual work meeting, watch a new series or even video call a relative who lives overseas.
So, better understanding the performance and quality of your internet connection at home or
work really matters! This is where a speed test comes in.
1- How does an internet speed test work?
In most cases, checking your speed is free and as quick and easy as pressing “one” button on a speed test website. Most internet providers will have their own speed tests web pages, but the most popular website is: https://www.speedtest.net/.
Your internet speed test results will mainly tell you three things:
- Your download speed – In simple terms, this is how quickly data gets transferred from the network to your device. Your internet speed will be measured in megabytes per second (Mbps). Therefore, the higher the number, the faster your speed is and the better for you.
Example: Watching a movie on a streaming service without interruptions or loading screens. - Your upload speed – This is the rate of how quickly your device transfers data to the internet. It is also measured in Mbps.
Example: Posting a photo or a video on social media. - Ping (or latency) – It measures the time it takes to send data from one network to another. Ping is measured in milliseconds (ms).
Example: Your ping speed determines the quality of your voice and video on virtual calls, or especially important while playing online games.
2- Why should I get a speed test?
There are many reasons why you should often test your internet speed:
- Confirm that you are getting the speed (Mbps) your internet provider has promised you – but be aware that sometimes they overpromise.
- It helps you choose the best internet provider that suits your individual needs – some may need more speed, others may be ok with less.
- Optimize your network for top performance – it assists in guiding you if your devices, such as modems, routers or antennas, are working well.
- It helps you to find out if someone is stealing your bandwidth – others may be logged in to your network or Wi-Fi and using your speed.
3- Are the tests accurate?
Yes, your speed test results will be accurate for that specific time, place, device, and network
you run the test. Therefore, the best way to get an entire perspective of your internet speed is
to run numerous tests in different scenarios. Things to have in mind:
- Running a speed test over Wi-Fi will probably differ from the results of an Ethernet cord.
- The number of devices connected to your network may affect your speed.
- It is normal for your speed to fluctuate throughout the day as the bandwidth is shared with other users. In peak hours, your speed may drop due to high usage.
- The distance between you and the router will impact your signal when using Wi-Fi. Subsequently, your speed will get weaker, especially if there are a lot of walls and obstructions.
- Different activities on the internet may also impact the speed. For example, the speed might differ depending on if you are sending an email, listening to music or watching a streaming video.
4- Why am I getting different speeds between my computer and my phone or tablet?
Firstly, check whether your devices are using the same connection. If the Wi-Fi of your
phone is turned off, you may be testing your cellular data speeds instead.
However, suppose both devices are on the same Wi-Fi connection. In that case, it is worth
mentioning that phones and tablets usually have less sophisticated Wi-Fi antennas than
laptops and computers, which may impact the internet speed.
5- What are some tips to get the most accurate speed results?
- Pause automatic downloads in the background. Sometimes programs are trying to download updates.
- Close all apps on your computer.
- Make sure other people are not connected to your network at the moment you run the test.
6- Can speed tests help increase my internet speeds?
Unfortunately, no. Having a speed test will not change the speed of your home’s Wi-Fi
network or cable connection. Still, it will help you to identify problems that may be
impacting your signal.
7- How could I improve my internet speed?
- Try restarting your modem and router.
- Make sure your modem or router has been updated recently or upgrade to a newer model if necessary.
- Ensure your router has open space around it, not blocking its signals. Try decluttering the area, and it might be worth repositioning its antennas.
- Change your Wi-Fi password if you suspect someone non-authorised is using it. Always choose a strong password for security reasons.
- Consider adding a Wi-Fi booster/extender to your network to get a stronger Wi-Fi signal around the house or office.
So, ready to test your internet speed? Click here