How Internet Speed Tests Work: Download, Upload, Ping and Test Servers
Learn what an internet speed test actually measures, why download, upload and ping differ, and how the choice of test server shapes your result.
Guides
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News, guides and updates.
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Mbps vs MBps: What Internet Speeds Mean for Everyday Use
Understand the difference between Mbps and MBps, what bandwidth really means, and how to think about speed for streaming, calls, work and gaming at home.
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Why Your Speed Test Result Differs From Your Plan
Wi-Fi, device limits, time of day, test server and background apps can all lower a speed test. Learn why results differ from your plan and how to check.
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Router Placement and Wi-Fi Tuning: A Practical Home Guide
Where you place your router and how you set up its bands and channels can change Wi-Fi quality. A practical guide to 2.4 and 5 GHz, mesh and wired options.
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Latency, Jitter and Packet Loss Explained for Calls and Gaming
Latency, jitter and packet loss decide how calls and games feel, even on a fast plan. Learn what each means, what causes it and how to reduce it at home.
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How to Compare Broadband Providers and Plans: A Buyer's Checklist
A neutral checklist for comparing broadband providers: technology, upload, contract terms, support, fair usage, installation and questions to ask.
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Slow Internet? A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Work through slow internet in a sensible order: test, isolate the device, check Wi-Fi, restart gear, review background use, then report to your provider.
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Why Website Speed Matters, and Why It Is Separate From Your Internet Speed
Your home broadband speed and your website's speed are different things. See what affects page load time and how to build a site that feels quick.
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What Download, Upload, Ping, Jitter and Packet Loss Mean
A plain guide to the five numbers on every speed test: download, upload, ping, jitter and packet loss, and what each one tells you about your connection.