Free Internet speed test
Measure your connection’s download speed, upload speed, ping and jitter in your browser. Start the test, then read the explanations below to understand your results.
Use Ethernet where possible. On Wi-Fi, move closer to the router and pause other devices using significant bandwidth.
Measurements are made against the Cloudflare network. The test uses data, and Cloudflare may collect results for aggregated statistical purposes.
How to run a reliable speed test
This free test measures the connection from your device to the Cloudflare network. It shows performance observed during the measurement; it does not guarantee your plan’s maximum speed or the speed to every website.
- To assess your Internet access, connect your computer to the router with a suitable Ethernet cable if possible.
- Pause downloads, online backups and video streams on your devices. These activities share your connection and may affect the result.
- Start the test and wait for the download and upload measurements to finish. The test transfers data, so take account of any data limit on your plan.
- Repeat the test at different times under the same conditions to compare results.
To assess your usual Wi-Fi performance, also test from where you normally work. Comparing Wi-Fi with Ethernet helps distinguish a wireless network limit from an Internet access limit.
Understanding your connection test results
Download speed: receiving data
Download speed measures how quickly you receive data. It affects file downloads, page loading and video playback. Results are shown in megabits per second (Mb/s).
Upload speed: sending data
Upload speed measures how quickly you send data. It matters for sharing files, backing up documents online and transmitting video during calls. It is also shown in Mb/s.
Ping and jitter: responsiveness and consistency
Ping is a measure of latency in milliseconds (ms). A lower value means a shorter delay to the measurement server. Jitter describes variations in latency. Low jitter is desirable for real-time activities such as calls and online gaming.
Why is my speed lower than the speed advertised in my plan?
The speed advertised by a provider and the speed measured on a device are not always the same. Wi-Fi, distance from the router, interference, cables, network adapters, the browser and other connected devices may limit the result. The route to the remote server also affects the measurement.
If a result seems low, compare Wi-Fi and Ethernet on the same device first. Then check simultaneous usage and test again. A single result cannot establish that your provider has an outage.
What Internet speed do I need?
Your needs depend on your activities and the number of users. Large file downloads mainly require download speed; sending backups uses upload speed. Latency and consistency also matter for video calls and gaming. Simultaneous activities share the available connection.
The assessment shown at the end of the test is indicative. It helps interpret the measurements but does not certify your plan type or the quality of every service you use.
Frequently asked questions about speed tests
What is the difference between Mb/s and MB/s?
A byte contains eight bits. To convert Mb/s to MB/s, divide by eight: 80 Mb/s equals 10 MB/s before allowing for transmission overhead and the limits of the service used.
Why do two tests give different results?
Network load, background usage and Wi-Fi conditions change. The server and measurement method may also differ between tools. Compare several measurements taken under similar conditions.
Can this test check my fibre speed?
You can use it on a fibre connection or other Internet access. Results remain limited by the entire network route and your equipment. The test alone cannot determine your connection technology or its maximum speed.
Does the test work on a phone?
Yes, with a compatible browser and JavaScript enabled. Check whether your phone uses Wi-Fi or mobile data: the test measures the active connection. A test can transfer a significant amount of data on a mobile plan.
Still experiencing slow speeds? Contact Scott Action Services to assess your network.