How to Test Internet Download Speed

There are many free tools online that you can use to test your broadband Internet download speed. These download speed testing tools can be helpful if you need to have a certain download speed to use online services such as VoIP or streaming audio or video. These Internet download speed tests also useful if you're optimizing your Internet connection. If your broadband cable or DSL Internet connection is experiencing slowdowns, they can help you determine just how much speed you're losing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Download the latest version of Flash Player and install it on your computer. Make sure that your computer is connected to the Internet using the broadband Internet connection you would like to test. Navigate to CNET's Bandwidth Meter to conduct an Internet download speed test.

2. Enter your telephone area code in the first field. Choose your connection type from the list. Choose "Cable Modem," "DSL" or "Satellite" if your computer is connected directly to your high-speed Internet connection. Click "LAN" or "Wireless" if you connect to your broadband Internet connection through a network.

3. Select your broadband Internet service provider from the next drop-down menu. If your ISP isn't in the list, type the name under "Other." Click "Go."

4. Read your Internet speed test results in the next window. They will appear in red under "Connection Speed" and "Connection Type." The results are measured in kilobits per seconds (Kbps.) Make a note of the results.

5. Go back and run the test a second time. You can also run the test multiple times to get a more accurate reading. Keep track of your broadband Internet download speed test results.

6. Navigate to PC Pitstop's Internet download speed test page. Select the server that is closest to you to begin the Internet download speed test. Click "Test Again" to re-run the test for greater accuracy. Make a note of these download speed results, as well.

7. Test your broadband Internet connection download speed on any other websites that you like. Additional websites where you can test your Internet speed for free include SpeedTest.net, SpeakEasy.net, Bandwidth.com and DSLReports.com. Copy down all of your test results.

8. Add your Internet speed test results together. Divide the total number by the number of times you tested your Internet download speed, regardless of which site you tested on. This will help you to get a more accurate idea of what your download speed really is. Keep in mind that many different factors can affect your broadband download speed, and the test results can vary widely even when they are taken on the same site at close to the same time.

Tips & Warnings

• If your DSL connection speeds are consistently low, check to see how close you are to your local switching center. If you're more than 10,000 feet away from the center, you can get faster speeds by changing to an Internet service provider with a switching center that's closer.
• Cable speeds are often advertised as being very fast. However, since a cable Internet connection is shared with other users in your area, you might experience slower speeds than what was promised. If your cable Internet speeds are below 600 Kbps, consider switching to DSL. DSL is a dedicated connection, so functionally it may be faster than cable in certain situations.

Resources

• CNET Internet download speed test
• PC Pitstop Internet download speed test
• SpeedTest.com
• SpeakEasy.net speed test
• Bandwidth.com speed test
• DSL Reports speed test

[capfriend]

on 8/12/2009 Wow, you really know your stuff! Great job!

[jenng]

on 4/26/2009 Great article on how to check internet speed 5*

[lijandra]

on 4/19/2009 Good info, thanks!

[carmensjones]

on 4/9/2009 wil ad to favs. 5

[katecrittendon]

on 4/9/2009 Thanks for the references. These are fun sites.