How to Run a Proper Internet Speed Test

Whether you’re working from home, streaming a 4K movie, or gaming online, knowing your real internet speed helps you spot issues and make informed decisions.

But running a speed test isn’t as simple as clicking a button—it needs to be done correctly to get accurate results.

This guide will walk you through how to run a proper internet speed test, what the results actually mean, and how to interpret them based on your internet plan and everyday use.

Why Run a Speed Test?

Speed tests are tools that help you measure the performance of your internet connection. They test three key metrics:

• Download speed: How fast you receive data from the internet
• Upload speed: How fast you send data to the internet
• Ping (latency): How quickly your device communicates with a server

You should run a speed test when:

• Your internet feels slower than usual
• You’re considering upgrading your plan
• You want to verify what your ISP is providing
• You’re troubleshooting a specific problem (e.g., video buffering, lag)

Best Tools to Use

Here are some of the most trusted and easy-to-use speed testing tools:

• Speedtest.net by Ookla: The most widely used, with global server options
• Fast.com: Created by Netflix, very simple and fast
• [Google Speed Test]: Just search “speed test” on Google and click “Run Speed Test”
• [TestMy.net]: Offers more detailed breakdowns, good for tech-savvy users

Each of these tools is free, browser-based, and available on desktop and mobile.

Before You Start: Important Preparation

To get an accurate result, prepare your network first:

1. Use a Wired Connection (if possible)

Connect your computer directly to the router with an Ethernet cable. This eliminates Wi-Fi interference and shows the real performance of your internet connection.

If you can’t use Ethernet, stay as close to the router as possible when using Wi-Fi.

2. Close Other Applications

Shut down any applications that use internet bandwidth:

• Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify)
• Video calls (Zoom, Teams)
• Cloud backups (Google Drive, iCloud)
• Gaming or large downloads

This ensures your test measures the full potential of your connection.

3. Disconnect Unused Devices

Smartphones, tablets, TVs, and other devices use bandwidth in the background. Temporarily disconnect or pause them to keep your test clean.

4. Restart Your Modem and Router

If your connection has been slow, restarting your equipment can resolve temporary issues and give a more accurate reading.

Wait a few minutes after restarting before running the test.

How to Run the Test

Once you’ve prepped your setup:

1. Open your browser and go to your preferred testing site (e.g., speedtest.net)
2. Make sure your location/server is correctly selected (some tools auto-select)
3. Click “Go” or “Start”
4. Wait 30–60 seconds while the test runs

The tool will show:

• Download speed (in Mbps)
• Upload speed (in Mbps)
• Ping (in ms)

Record the results for comparison later.

Understanding Your Results

Download Speed

This is the speed at which data is transferred to you. It affects:

• Streaming
• Web browsing
• File downloads
• App updates

For example:

• 5 Mbps is enough for 1 HD stream
• 25 Mbps is ideal for 4K streaming
• 100+ Mbps handles multiple devices streaming or gaming

Upload Speed

This is the speed at which data is transferred from you. It matters for:

• Video calls
• Cloud backups
• Uploading videos/files
• Online gaming (to some extent)

If upload speed is too low, video calls may freeze or file uploads could take hours.

Ping (Latency)

Ping measures how fast your device can “talk” to a remote server. It’s measured in milliseconds (ms).

Lower is better:

• 0–30 ms: Great for gaming and video calls
• 30–60 ms: Still good for most tasks
• 100+ ms: May cause lag or delays

High ping often causes voice delay or rubber-banding in online games.

Compare Against Your Plan

Check your ISP’s plan to see what speed you’re paying for. If you’re getting 70 Mbps download on a 100 Mbps plan, that’s fairly normal due to overhead.

But if you’re only getting 20–30% of your promised speed consistently, it may be time to:

• Contact your ISP
• Check your hardware
• Consider a plan upgrade or new provider

Take multiple tests on different days and times for more accurate averages.

Factors That Can Affect Results

Speed tests aren’t always perfect. Here’s what can skew your results:

• Wi-Fi interference: Walls, other electronics, or too much distance from the router
• Server location: If you’re connected to a far server, results may be lower
• Congestion: If you’re testing during peak hours, speed may dip
• Old devices: Phones or laptops with slow network cards can’t reach high speeds
• Background updates or hidden apps: These drain bandwidth without you noticing

Run multiple tests in different conditions to identify patterns.

Tips for Consistent Speed Testing

• Run tests at the same time each day (morning, afternoon, evening)
• Use both Wi-Fi and wired connections to compare
• Test with different devices
• Use the same server each time for consistency
• Keep a log of results to show your ISP if needed

Tracking results over time gives a clearer picture of your connection’s performance.

What to Do If Your Speed Is Too Low

If your tests reveal speeds significantly lower than your plan:

• Restart your router/modem
• Move your router to a better location
• Use a wired connection
• Update firmware on your router
• Scan for malware or background downloads
• Contact your ISP for support or reprovisioning

If all else fails, it may be time to switch plans or providers.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Speed, Control Your Connection

Running a proper internet speed test isn’t complicated—but doing it the right way ensures you’re not misled by inaccurate results. Whether you’re checking performance or negotiating with your ISP, accurate data is your best ally.

Know your numbers, monitor your connection, and take charge of your digital experience.