How Can I Check My Computers Download/Upload Speeds?

Slower-than-advertised connection speeds can lead to frustratingly slow browsing.

Internet service providers promote the speed of their connections as a major reason to switch over to their services--but the promises of salesmen should almost always be taken with the proverbial grain of salt. Checking the small print of your contract reveals that the vaunted speeds are only the upper limits of the service; the maximum possible download speed rather than the guaranteed browsing speed. Upload speeds are even slower. If you want more concrete numbers about your connection, several websites offer free tests that check your computer's download and upload speeds.

Instructions

1. Open your Internet browser.

2. Navigate to a website that offers free connection speed testing, such as Speedtest.net, Broadband DSL Reports, Speakeasy or Bandwidth.com.

3. Select the server closest to your physical location if the website prompts you to choose one. Click the location's name to start the test, or the "Start Test" button if you aren't asked to select a specific server.

4. Allow the website to finish running the connectivity tests. The download and upload tests are run separately.

5. Read the results provided when the tests are completed. These are the actual connection speeds for your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Most of the speed-testing websites use Flash or Java to conduct the tests. You may have to download the software in order to run the test.

• Connection speeds can fluctuate depending on a number of factors. Conduct several tests at different times of the day, using different testing services, to help determine your average connection speed.

• Running bandwidth-heavy websites at the same time you're conducting a speed test can alter the results. Close any streaming music and video and halt any downloads prior to starting the test.

Resources

• Speedtest.Net
• Broadband DSL Reports: Speed Test
• Speakeasy: Speed Test
• Bandwidth.com: Internet Speed Test