How to Check Your Internet Speed Correctly
A speed test measures how fast data moves between your device and a test server. It is useful when a video call stutters or downloads seem slow. A few simple habits make the result more accurate and easier to understand.
Prepare for the test
- Close other programs and downloads, and pause cloud backups.
- Ask others in the house to avoid streaming during the test.
- Restart the router if it has been running for many weeks.
Test over a cable first
Connect your computer to the router with an Ethernet cable and run the test in a browser. This result shows the speed your provider delivers. Then test over Wi-Fi from the same spot. A big difference points to the wireless setup, as discussed in how to speed up slow home Wi-Fi.
Understand the numbers
| Measure | What it means |
|---|---|
| Download | How fast data reaches you: web pages, streaming and downloads |
| Upload | How fast data leaves you: video calls, sending files and backups |
| Ping (latency) | The delay before a response, important for gaming and calls |
Compare with your plan
Your provider sells a maximum speed. Real results are usually lower, especially over Wi-Fi. Test at different times of day. If the wired result is far below the plan at all times, contact your provider with the test results and the time you tested.
Check how much you need
Video calls usually need a few megabits per second for each person, and streaming in high definition needs more. Large downloads and cloud backups use the connection heavily. If your plan is enough for your daily use, a slow test may be only a short-term issue.
Use reputable test sites
Use the test built into your provider's app or a well-known independent site. Avoid apps that ask you to install extra software or that show many pop-up adverts.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my results different each time?
Network traffic, server choice and interference all change the result. Run the test three times and use the average.
Does a VPN affect the speed?
Yes, usually it lowers the speed. Turn it off for a test if you want to see your normal connection speed.
Test at different times
Internet speed can change during the day as neighbours go online and as the network gets busy. Test in the morning, afternoon and evening, and note the results. If the speed drops sharply at the same time each day, the problem may be network congestion, and you can ask your provider for an explanation.
Keep a record for your provider
When you contact your provider, a list of tests with dates, times and results is more useful than a single screenshot. Include the wired and wireless results, the device you used and whether any other programs were running. This helps the support team check the line and decide what to do next.
Related reading
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- Why Your Computer Is Stuck on a Loading Screen: What to try when a computer gets stuck on a loading or spinning screen after an update, restart or startup: patience, safe mode, startup repair and backups.
- Mac Basics for Windows Users Switching Over: The main differences between macOS and Windows, and the Mac habits that make the switch easier: Finder, Command key, Dock and app installation.