How to Tell Your Internet Speed

When your purchase Internet access from an Internet service provider, you are often given the choice of a few different connection speeds. The greater the connection speed, the faster your computer is able to upload and download information from the Internet. Unfortunately, the advertised speeds don't always match up to real-world speeds. Test your connection speed to ensure you are getting your money's worth.

Instructions

1. Open your default Web browser. Navigate to a Internet connection speed testing site.

2. Select your Internet service provider. Select your current location. Select your network connection type. Choose a testing location; it's best to choose a location closest to your current location. Not every testing will require all this information; some may gather the information automatically.

3. Close all other browser windows and tabs before starting, and click "Start Test." The test involves uploading data from your computer to the testing location and downloading data from the testing location to your computer. It will only take a moment to complete. Once complete, your average upload and download speeds are displayed.