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Overview
An internet speed test measures the performance of your current internet connection, including download speed, upload speed, and ping. These results can help identify potential issues with your internet or network connection.
This article explains how to run an internet speed test using Speedtest by Ookla and how to understand the results. Speed test results can also help the IT Service Desk troubleshoot slow or unreliable network connections.
Key Information
- Use Speedtest by Ookla at https://www.speedtest.net/.
- Speed tests can help troubleshoot slow internet or Wi-Fi, video buffering, poor-quality video meetings, slow file transfers, and connectivity issues with online services.
- For the most accurate results, run the test from the device experiencing the issue.
- When testing Wi-Fi, remain in the location where you normally experience the problem.
- If possible, test using both Wi-Fi and a wired Ethernet connection for comparison.
- Close unnecessary applications, downloads, and streaming services before running the test.
- Run the test more than once if the results seem unusual.
- Internet speed can vary based on network traffic, Wi-Fi signal strength, location, time of day, and other factors.
| Result |
What it measures |
What it means |
| Download |
How quickly data is received by your device |
Higher speeds generally mean faster website loading, streaming, and downloads. |
| Upload |
How quickly data is sent from your device |
Higher speeds generally improve file uploads, video meetings, and other activities that send data. |
| Ping |
The time it takes data to travel to a server and back |
Lower ping generally means a more responsive connection. |
| Jitter |
Variation in ping over time |
Lower jitter generally indicates a more stable connection. |
⚠️ Important: There is not one specific download or upload speed that guarantees that a connection is "good" or "bad." Speed test results should be considered along with the activity you are trying to perform and the issues you are experiencing.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have:
- A device connected to the internet using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection
- An active internet connection
- A web browser
- Approximately one minute to run the test
Instructions
Run an Internet Speed Test
- Open a web browser.
- Go to https://www.speedtest.net/.
- Select Go.
- Wait while Speedtest tests your connection.
- When the test finishes, review the Download, Upload, and Ping results.
Run Additional Tests
If your connection appears slower than expected:
- Run the test again.
- If using Wi-Fi, move closer to your wireless access point and run the test again.
- If possible, test another device on the same network.
- If possible, test using a wired Ethernet connection.
- Compare the results to determine whether the issue may be related to the device, Wi-Fi connection, or internet connection.
- Try another speed test site like: https://www.fast.com.
💡 Tip: When contacting the
IT Service Desk about a slow connection, include a screenshot of your speed test results. If possible, include the time of the test and whether you were connected using Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Troubleshooting
My speed test results are lower than expected
- Run the test again to determine whether the results are consistent.
- Make sure other devices or applications are not using significant network bandwidth.
- If using Wi-Fi, verify that you are testing from your normal location and have a strong wireless connection.
- If possible, compare the results using another device or a wired Ethernet connection.
My internet connection keeps disconnecting
A speed test can help document connection performance, but it may not identify the cause of intermittent disconnections. Record the results and note when the disconnects occur.
If the problem continues, contact the IT Service Desk and provide the speed test results along with information about the device, location, and connection type.
My speed test results look normal, but I am still having problems
A normal speed test does not necessarily mean there is no problem. Issues with a specific application, website, wireless signal, device, VPN, or service may not be reflected by the speed test.
Document what you are experiencing and contact the IT Service Desk for additional troubleshooting.
Need Additional Assistance?
If you're unable to resolve your internet connectivity issue after following the steps and troubleshooting guidance above, submit an IT Service Desk ticket.
Include your speed test results, the date and time of the test, your location, whether you were connected using Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and any error messages or screenshots, if available, so the Service Desk can assist you as quickly as possible.