Fast internet is important for streaming, working, and playing online. Test your internet speed to ensure your ISP delivers on their promise. Internet speed is measured in kbps and mbps, with downstream speed being faster than upstream. Choose a nearby server for accurate results and test multiple times for the most accurate average performance.
Streaming television and online movies, podcasts and content-heavy music, videos, and websites are all good reasons to have a fast Internet connection. As people spend more time online working, playing, researching and having fun, the value of a fast internet connection is becoming more and more important. To make sure your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is delivering on the value they promise, you can test your Internet speed by visiting one of several websites.
The speed of an Internet connection is measured by the amount of data that can be transferred from the Internet to a computer per second. Data is measured in quantifiable units of kilobits per second (kbps) and megabits per second (mbps). Since 1,000 kbps = 1 mbps, a plan offering speeds up to 1,500 kbps or 3,000 kbps could alternatively express this value as 1.5 mbps or 3 mbps, respectively. When you test your internet speed, take note of the data unit you use, otherwise you may incorrectly assume that your connection is much faster or much slower than expected.
There are two data links created with every Internet connection: the downlink and the uplink. Anything you download from the internet flows downstream from the network to your computer. Requests you make, like clicking on a link, flow upstream. The needs of the upstream link are not as demanding as those of the downstream link, so ISPs reduce the bandwidth allotted to upstream connections. When you test your internet speed you will find that the downstream speed is about four times faster than the upstream speed.
Before starting a speed test, disable any unnecessary background processes that may be running. While the test is in progress, avoid multitasking. For accurate results, choose a server that is physically nearby, as using a server located on the other side of the world can introduce latency issues unrelated to the speed of your connection. Data travels across the Internet in discrete packets, each following a unique path, rejoining the browser. The further the packages have to travel to reach your machine, the greater the risk of inaccurate results.
Fortunately, the most popular Internet speed testing sites allow the visitor to enter a zip code or click on a map to choose a nearby server. You may also be asked to provide information about your connection type (eg DSL or cable) and your provider. In this case, the results will allow you to see your connection speed in relation to others who are also using your provider. You can also see where you stand in comparison to slower and faster plans and different technologies. Results are provided for both upstream and downstream speeds.
For the most accurate results, it is recommended that you test your internet speed a few times, then switch to another speed test website and try again. Average all results to get a better idea of real performance.
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