


I suggest running multiple speed tests for a day or two, tracking the results, to gauge your connection's true speed. Your internet connection's speed will vary based on the time of day, the number of devices connected and in use, and other factors. Finally, advanced service is any connection speed over 25Mbps and is best suited for those with more than four users or devices using the connection at the same time for more than light usage. Medium service is classified as 12-25Mbps and is best for up to three users or devices simultaneously, with medium to high usage depending on the activity. Basic service ranges from 3 megabits per second to 8Mbps and will be good enough for light usage (browsing, email, video calls, streaming HD video, etc.). The Federal Communications Commission published a guideline for household broadband speeds based on the number of devices and people connected to the same network. Running the test via a ethernet cable and via wifi will help you troubleshoot where the slow speeds are being caused.īefore you run a speed test on either your phone or computer, you also want to make sure that all background applications are closed so that you can use all of the available bandwidth.The FCC gives some recommendations on how fast a connection you'll need based on your usage.

We recommend using a CAT6 or higher Ethernet cable and you should also take a look at reviews before you buy to make sure it isn’t a fake. However, if you notice that the speeds are slower via Ethernet than they usually are over Wi-Fi, you should swap out your old Ethernet cable for a new one. Desktop users won’t have any problems with this but laptop users might need an adapter with an Ethernet port. Avoid having any obstructions between you and the router.įor anyone testing their internet speed using a laptop or desktop, you’re going to want to use an ethernet chord to connect your computer directly to the router. If you’re using an app on your phone, you want to make sure that your wifi is set to use the 5Ghz frequency (if your router supports it) and that the device you choose to run the test on is right next to the wifi router. This means making sure that nobody else is using the internet at that particular moment since someone streaming video downstairs or browsing the web in the kitchen will affect the test. Before running a speed test, you should ensure that your network environment is clean.
