How to Monitor Internet Speed

Monitoring your Internet speed is simple.

When computers are connected to the Internet, speed is a vital concern for users. In order to ensure faster transmission of data either from bulk files, music or stream videos, a higher bandwidth means less lag or none at all. Bandwidth refers to the data transfer rate from one point to another through an Internet network--the greater your bandwidth, the better performance and Internet speed you will experience. Fortunately, if you want to monitor your Internet speed there are several websites that run free Internet speed tests.

Instructions

Using SpeakEasy.net Speed Test

1. Visit the speed test page on the SpeakEasy.net website (see Resources). Sites such as this one can automatically conduct bandwidth tests for your convenience.

2. Select your location (such as Los Angeles, CA; Seattle, WA; Atlanta, GA) from the list located below where it says "Speed Test," on the middle-left side of your screen. Once you click on your location, the website will conduct the speed test.

3. Wait for the transmission of data and speed test to finish. The outcome will be shown to you below where it says "Results," in the "Download Speed" and "Upload Speed" boxes.

Using SpeedTest.net to Test Internet Speed

1. Visit the SpeedTest.net website (see Resources).

2. Click on the tab that says "Begin Test" located in the upper-middle section of your screen. The website will begin the tests. This will take about two minutes.

3. Wait for the Internet Speed results. The results will show up in a small window.

Test Internet Speed Using BandwidthPlace.com

1. Visit the BandwidthPlace.com website (see Resources).

2. Click on the "Start Test" button located next to "Internet Speed Test."

3. Wait for the website to run the test and display the results. The Internet speed results will be displayed in the "Download Speed" and "Upload Speed" boxes.

Tips & Warnings

• In some cases wireless network users can enhance their Internet connection speed by reducing obstructions between the wireless enabled computer and the wireless connection base point. For instance, brick and plaster walls as well a tall furniture that is situated between the wireless base and your wireless computer may weaken the wireless signal and make your Internet connection run slower.

• Your Internet speed may also be affected by websites that you visit and not by your Internet connection. For instance, websites that stream videos or show photo slide-shows use more bandwidth. Hence, they may slow your Internet performance.

References

• Speak Easy: Speed Test
• Speed Test
• Bandwidth Place
• SearchEnterpriseWAN: Bandwidth