How to Test Speed on a Cable or DSL Connection

Testing your Internet speed is vital to your computer's productivity. The speed of your connection determines how quickly you can browse the Internet, download files and communicate with friends or coworkers. By testing your computer's Internet speed with Speedtest, you can verify the speed guaranteed by your Internet service provider and determine whether you are in need of additional assistance. If your Internet connection is not running at the right speed, you may need to explore other troubleshooting techniques.

• 1

  Close all programs and shut down any other computers connected to the network. Some programs and computers may attempt to access the Internet while performing the test. This will cause the test to display inaccurate results.

• 2

  Go to the Speedtest website. Speedtest will display your computer's Internet service provider (ISP) and Internet protocol (IP) address. It also determines the best ISP server location.

• 3

  Click "Begin Test." Speedtest tests your download and upload speeds. It also pings your computer. Ping is the amount of time it takes for your computer to receive a message from another computer. The test sends a message to your computer and displays how long it takes your computer to respond.

• 4

  View your results. Speedtest displays the results of your cable or DSL connection speed and ping. It also displays the approximate amount of time it takes to download an MP3 file, video clip and movie.

• 5

  Compare your results to the speed provided by your ISP. If your results significantly differ, you may wish to contact your ISP for further troubleshooting.