How Does an Internet Connection Speed Test Work?
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Downstream Test
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Most Internet connection speed tests will begin by testing the downstream, which is the speed at which you can download data over your Internet connection. This test is generally performed by beginning the download of a packet of inert data (essentially a file with no real content, just a random assortment of characters that result in a specific file size) and monitoring how long it takes for the file to finish downloading. Depending on the test provider, they may actively monitor the download speed to collect data of how many bytes per second are downloaded or they may simply use the file size and the download time to determine the average bytes per second. Regardless of the method used to track the speed, the end result will be displayed as the average bytes per second (though generally converted to kilobytes per second or megabytes per second for ease of reading).
Upstream Test
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The second part of an Internet connection speed test involves testing the upstream, determining the speed at which data can be transferred from your computer to a remote server. This test is generally performed after the downstream test has been completed, using the same inert data packet so as not to risk accidentally uploading any files from your computer. The speed of the upstream test will be calculated in the same manner as the downstream test, with the average speed being generated once the inert data file has been completely uploaded from your computer. The end result will be displayed in average bytes per second (though again will likely be converted to kilobytes or megabytes beforehand).
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Speed Test Results
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The average upload and download speeds will be displayed for you once your Internet connection speed test has been completed, generally with an accompanying graphical display used to give you a reference as to whether your connection is considered to be fast or slow. It is normal for your upload speed to be significantly slower than your download speed, as most Internet connections have a much larger downstream because the majority of Internet users will download much more than they upload. By comparing your average download and upload speeds to the maximum speeds offered by the Internet package that you have subscribed to with your Internet service provider, you can determine whether you are getting a good connection for your money or if your connection isn't living up to its potential. It should be noted that most Internet connections won't deliver the full potential of the package except possibly under optimal conditions.
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