The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Test Your Internet Speed

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Testing your internet speed measures your actual download and upload speeds versus what your internet service provider promises. This helps identify connection problems, verify you're getting what you pay for, and troubleshoot slow performance.

Difficulty
Beginner
Time
10 minutes

Step by step

  1. Close all background applications

    Quit streaming services, cloud backups, video calls, and downloads. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows or Command+Space then type Activity Monitor on Mac to check for bandwidth-heavy processes. Close any applications using significant network resources.

    Note: Pause automatic updates and cloud sync services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox before testing.

  2. Connect directly to your router

    Use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your router or modem. This eliminates Wi-Fi interference and provides the most accurate speed measurement. If testing Wi-Fi specifically, stay within 10 feet of your router.

    Note: Test both wired and wireless connections separately to identify if Wi-Fi is the bottleneck.

  3. Choose a speed testing service

    Open your web browser and navigate to fast.com, speedtest.net, or speed.google.com. Fast.com uses Netflix servers and measures real-world streaming performance. Speedtest.net offers detailed metrics and server selection. Google's test integrates directly into search results.

    Note: Run tests on multiple services since they use different server networks and can show varying results.

  4. Run the speed test

    Click the Go, Start, or Begin button on your chosen testing service. The test measures ping (latency), download speed, and upload speed. Wait for all three measurements to complete without interrupting the process.

    Note: Note the server location shown in the results—closer servers typically provide faster speeds.

  5. Record and repeat the test

    Write down your ping, download speed, and upload speed results. Run the test three more times with 30-second breaks between each test. Calculate the average of all four results for accuracy.

    Note: Test at different times of day since internet speeds fluctuate based on network congestion.

  6. Compare results to your plan

    Check your internet bill or ISP website for your plan's advertised speeds. Your actual speeds should be within 80-90% of advertised speeds. Download speeds matter most for streaming and browsing, while upload speeds affect video calls and file sharing.

    Note: ISPs typically advertise maximum speeds, not guaranteed minimums, so some variation is normal.

  7. Document issues for your ISP

    If speeds consistently fall below 80% of your plan, screenshot your test results including timestamps and server locations. Note any patterns like slower speeds during peak hours or specific devices experiencing issues.

    Note: Run tests from multiple devices to determine if the issue affects your entire network or just one device.