How to Test Internet Speed Accurately
The difference between a "good" test and an "accurate" one, and how to spot if your ISP is delivering what you pay for.
Most people run a speed test when they feel their internet is "lagging." But simply clicking "Go" on a website doesn't always tell the whole story. To truly understand your network performance, you need to understand what you're measuring and how to eliminate variables that skew the results.
1. Download vs. Upload Speed
Internet plans are usually advertised by their Download Speed (e.g., "1 Gigabit"). This is how fast data comes into your home.
- Download: Watching Netflix, downloading games, browsing websites.
- Upload: Sending emails, posting to social media, your video feed in a Zoom call.
Most residential connections are "asymmetrical," meaning your upload speed is much lower (often 1/10th) of your download speed. Fiber connections are usually "symmetrical" (same speed both ways).
2. The Wi-Fi Variable
The biggest mistake people make is testing over Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is subject to interference from walls, microwaves, and even your neighbor's router.
3. MBps vs Mbps (The Math Trap)
ISPs sell speed in Megabits per second (Mbps). However, browsers often show download speeds in MegaBytes per second (MBps).
There are 8 bits in a Byte. If you have a 100Mbps connection, your maximum real-world download speed in clear terms is 12.5 MBps. Don't panic if the number looks smaller!
4. Step-by-Step for a Perfect Test
- Restart your modem and router to clear any temporary glitches.
- Connect a laptop directly to the router via Ethernet.
- Ensure no other devices are streaming 4K video or gaming.
- Open our Internet Speed Test tool.
- Run the test three times: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening.
Is your speed lower than expected?
If your wired speed is consistently 20% lower than your advertised plan, it's time to call your ISP. If only your Wi-Fi is slow, check our guide on Fixing Router Problems.