Testing Criteria
Three factors measure Internet connections: download speed, upload speed and ping. Download speed is how quickly your computer receives information while upload speed is how quickly your computer sends information. Ping measures how long it takes to send and return messages to and from another computer. Download and upload speeds are measured in megabits per second while ping is measured in milliseconds. Download and upload speeds are important for transferring large amounts of data, while a low ping is better for real-time Web applications. Tests work by measuring how fast your connection sends and receives dummy data over a few seconds.
For Best Results
You can stop any outgoing and incoming data on your network when running a speed test to get the best results. The test results will show lower scores if your computer is downloading a large file or someone is streaming a movie in your house over the same Internet connection. Speed tests get the most accurate results when they have the entire available bandwidth at their disposal. Also, the distance between your computer and the test server can result in lower performing results.
Speedtest.net
Speedtest.net uses your computer’s IP address to automatically assign you the closest server. It tests your ping, download speed, and upload speed. Speedtest.net also ranks your performance on a national and global scale against other users. You can also test your long distance performance with Speedtest.net by choosing servers located farther away.
TestMy.net
TestMy.net measures upload and download speed. This program supports running several tests over a set period of time to determine results from a larger data pool and gauge your speed at different times. You can also use the service to troubleshoot connection problems.
ZDNet Broadband Speed Test
ZDNet’s Internet connection speed test measures your download speed and enables you to compare your results against national averages from around the world. This test compiles results into slowest, fastest, median and average speeds for each country. ZDNet’s test requires that you enter your zip code, location, and connection type.
Internet Frog
Internet Frog measures your download speed, upload speed and ping. The results rank your connection speed against other connection types and give you examples of how long it would take you to download multiple file sizes. It also compiles and shows speed results for your Internet Service Provider and your geographical area.