Help & Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about using our speed test and understanding your internet connection.
General Questions
What is an internet speed test?
An internet speed test measures your connection's performance by downloading and uploading data to test servers, then calculating the speed based on the time taken.
How accurate are your speed tests?
Our tests are highly accurate and use industry-standard methodologies. However, many factors can affect results, including network congestion, device capabilities, and server distance.
Do I need to install anything?
No! Our speed test runs entirely in your web browser. No downloads, plugins, or software installations required.
Is the speed test free?
Yes, our speed test is completely free to use with no limits on the number of tests you can run.
Technical Questions
Why are my results different each time?
Internet speeds can vary due to:
- Network congestion at different times
- Background applications using bandwidth
- Server load and routing changes
- WiFi interference (if using wireless)
What's the difference between Mbps and MBps?
- Mbps (Megabits per second) - Used by ISPs to advertise speeds
- MBps (Megabytes per second) - File download/upload speeds
- 8 Mbps ā 1 MBps
Why is my upload speed slower than download?
Most internet connections are "asymmetric," meaning download speeds are faster than upload speeds. This is normal for residential connections.
What affects my internet speed?
Several factors can impact your speed:
- Distance from your ISP's equipment
- Network congestion during peak hours
- WiFi signal strength and interference
- Device capabilities and age
- Background applications and updates
Troubleshooting
My speeds are much slower than expected
Try these steps:
- Test with ethernet: Use a wired connection instead of WiFi
- Close applications: Shut down streaming, downloads, and updates
- Restart your router: Unplug for 30 seconds, then plug back in
- Test at different times: Check speeds during off-peak hours
- Contact your ISP: If problems persist, they may need to investigate
The test won't start or gets stuck
- Try refreshing the page
- Clear your browser cache and cookies
- Disable browser extensions temporarily
- Try a different browser
- Check if JavaScript is enabled
Results seem inconsistent
- Run multiple tests over time to get an average
- Test from the same location and device
- Ensure no other devices are using bandwidth during testing
- Try testing to different server locations
Understanding Results
What speeds do I need for different activities?
| Activity | Recommended Speed |
|---|---|
| Email, web browsing | 1-5 Mbps |
| HD video streaming | 5-25 Mbps |
| 4K video streaming | 25+ Mbps |
| Video calling | 1-4 Mbps |
| Online gaming | 3-10 Mbps |
| Large file downloads | 10+ Mbps |
What is a good ping time?
- Excellent: Under 20ms
- Good: 20-50ms
- Average: 50-100ms
- Poor: Over 100ms
When should I contact my ISP?
Contact your internet service provider if:
- Speeds are consistently 50% below what you're paying for
- You experience frequent connection drops
- Ping times are consistently very high
- Problems persist after troubleshooting
Privacy & Security
Do you store my test results?
We don't store personal information or detailed test results. Only anonymous, aggregated data may be used for improving our service.
Is it safe to run speed tests?
Yes, our speed test is completely safe. We only transfer test data and don't access your files or personal information.
Still have questions? Feel free to contact us or run a speed test to check your connection.