If you are wondering, “How to check my internet speed?” you’re certainly not alone. We’ve all been in that frustrating situation where you’re attempting to stream a movie, video call your kids, or work remotely. In the middle of what you’re doing, your screen freezes, that loading wheel spins endlessly, and time slows down.
While reaching out to your internet service provider (which is a good idea for persistent issues) is an option, there are steps you can take to diagnose the problem yourself, and it all begins with checking your internet speed.
After all, you’re paying for that fast and reliable internet whenever you need them. By following these simple tips, you’ll pinpoint the cause of your sluggish connection and take measures to enhance it.
How Do You Define Internet Speed?
According to pcmag.com “The performance of an Internet connection, which is based on the number of bytes per second (Mbps) that data travels from the user’s device to the Internet (upload) and from the Internet to your device (download). Depending on the type of connection, the speed differs dramatically.
The download rate is higher than the upload because a short request to the website (upload) results in a much larger download of web pages, images, and videos.”
This means that when you’re using online services or applications such as streaming videos, sending emails, downloading files, or browsing websites, the higher the Mbps rating on your internet plan, the quicker these activities will happen.
How Do You Run A Free Internet Speed Test?
Fortunately, running an internet speed test is an easy process that you can do for free. Here are three easy steps to help you accurately measure your internet speed.
- Find a reputable website to perform the test. There are many platforms available, such as Speedtest by Ookla, Fast.com by Netflix, and Google’s Internet speed test. These websites deliver reliable and precise results, which allows you to evaluate your internet connection’s download and upload speeds, as well as latency.
- Connect your device directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable. This bypasses WiFi signals and other network devices, eliminating potential interference that could influence the speed test results. This direct connection guarantees a more precise measurement of your internet speed, furnishing you with dependable information about your connection’s performance.
- Start the speed test. Visit the chosen website and click on the “Start” or “Go” button to commence the test. The speed test will evaluate your internet connection’s download speed (how quickly data is transferred from the internet to your device), upload speed (the rate at which data is sent from your device to the internet), and latency (the time taken for data to travel between your device and the server).
Following the test’s completion, the website will exhibit your results, enabling you to gauge your internet connection’s performance.
By following these three simple steps, you can effortlessly conduct a free internet speed test and gain valuable insights into your internet connection’s performance. Regularly performing speed tests helps in identifying potential issues, allowing you to optimize your internet setup and ensure a seamless online experience.
Keep in mind that internet speeds can fluctuate at different times of the day due to network congestion and other external factors. It’s better therefore to run tests at various intervals to get a comprehensive understanding of your internet speed. Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be prepared to resolve any connection concerns and maximize your online activities.
What are The Factors That Can Affect Internet Speeds?
The primary factor that affects your internet speed is the type of connection you have. Various internet types—such as DSL, cable, fiber optic, and satellite—offer different speeds and performance levels. For instance, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connections employ existing telephone lines to transmit data, potentially resulting in slower speeds compared to other options.
Cable internet, on the other hand, utilizes coaxial cables to provide faster speeds and more consistent performance. Fiber optic internet, known for its exceptional speed and reliability, utilizes thin glass or plastic fibers to transmit data through light pulses. Lastly, satellite internet, accessible in remote regions, may exhibit greater latency and slower speeds due to the extended signal travel distance.
You must understand the type of connection you have as it directly impacts the maximum speed you can have.
Another factor to consider is the number of devices connected to your network. When multiple devices share the same internet connection, it can lead to slow speed and network congestion. Each device linked to your network requires bandwidth to execute tasks like streaming videos or browsing the web. If multiple devices are consuming bandwidth, it can strain your connection and lead to slow speeds for each device.
To optimize your internet speed, consider restricting the number of devices actively using the network or investing in a router with advanced features that prioritize bandwidth allocation.
Several factors could affect your internet speed. Understanding these factors allows you to make an informed decision when choosing the best internet provider. Keep these factors in mind to maximize your online experience.
What is The Role of Your Internet Service Provider?
If your internet connection is frustratingly slow, your first course of action should be reaching out to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance. Their technical team is equipped to determine whether any network issues are known and being addressed, or if they need to delve deeper into the problem.
While attempting to troubleshoot the issue on your own is an option, contacting your ISP is typically the swiftest way to resolve the problem.
Wood River Internet takes great pride in delivering outstanding customer service. We recognize the significance of dependable and fast internet connections in today’s digital landscape, and we’re dedicated to ensuring our customers enjoy the best possible experience and receive the speed they’re paying for.
Contact Beaver River Broadband at 1-(306) 992-5516 today to speak to a friendly customer service representative who can walk you through your choices.
Right now, when you sign up for Wood River Internet Services, you will get the next fastest wireless internet package FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE for 3 months! To take advantage of this offer, visit wrinternet.com or call (306) 992-5516.
How To Check My Internet Speed: Conclusion
Understanding and monitoring your internet is important for troubleshooting and optimizing your overall internet experience. By following the steps mentioned above, you can now easily check your internet speed. Running these speed tests regularly allows you to check and evaluate your internet connection’s performance and identify any potential issues.
Beyond internet access, Wood River Internet has recently introduced an innovative TV service designed specifically for rural communities. This service offers a wide range of entertainment options, including streaming platforms, live television, and on-demand content, all at a fraction of the cost of traditional cable TV. To explore your options, reach out to Wood River Internet at (306) 992-5516 and speak to a friendly customer service representative today.
