Internet bandwidth speed tests how to#

For the best WiFi speeds, use newer devices made within the last few years.

Minimize the number of devices connected to the network and using up bandwidth at the same time.

Use a wired (Ethernet) connection instead of WiFi for key high-bandwidth devices like a gaming system, work computer, or streaming device.

Add or move 360 WiFi pods to reach areas of your home or business that are getting a weak signal.

If you have a C5500XK or C6500XK SmartNID attached to your wall, DO NOT MOVE IT, as you could damage your fiber connection.

As much as possible, clear a path between your modem/SmartNID, or nearest WiFi pod, and your personal devices. Minimize blocking the signal to high-bandwidth devices with heavy walls, floors, or appliances.

Restart from the app before you move on to these other steps to optimize your setup and maximize your speed: Besides Amazon Basics, UGreen, Mediabridge and Cable Matters also make high-quality Ethernet cables.īefore you run a speed test on either your phone or computer, you also want to make sure that all background applications are closed so that you can use all of the available bandwidth.The first thing to try anytime you're having a connection issue or a slowdown is to restart your modem or SmartNID. We recommend using a CAT6 or higher Ethernet cable and you should also take a look at reviews before you buy to make sure it isn't a fake. However, if you notice that the speeds are slower via Ethernet than they usually are over Wi-Fi, you should swap out your old Ethernet cable for a new one. The whole process should take less than a minute. Wait while both parts of the test complete. Like most speed tests out there, Charters test requires only a click or tap to get started: Head to and wait for that to load.

Internet bandwidth speed tests how to#

Desktop users won’t have any problems with this but laptop users might need an adapter with an Ethernet port. How to Test Your Bandwidth With the Charter Speed Test. You also want to avoid having any obstructions like large appliances between you and the router.įor anyone testing their internet speed using a laptop or desktop, you’re going to want to plug an Ethernet cable directly into your router. If you’re using an app on your phone, you want to make sure that your Wi-Fi is set to use the 5Ghz frequency (if your router supports it) and that your device is as close to the router as possible. This means making sure that nobody else is using the internet at that particular moment since someone streaming video downstairs or browsing the web in the kitchen will affect that data pulled in by your speed test app. For access to the expert features listed above, the app will cost $0.99 for 24 hours, $1.99 for the month, $9.99 for the year and $19.99 for life.īefore running a speed test, you should ensure that your network environment is clean. The app is available for free, but paying a one-time $1.99 fee will remove ads. Unfortunately, there isn't a version for iOS. If none of that made sense to you, then maybe the other speed test apps on this list would be a better fit.Įither way, Speed Test WiFi Analyzer by analiti is available on Google Play and the Amazon Appstore. If you're a nerd for deep Wi-Fi metrics, this app will give you detailed RSSI stats, a signal analyzer, decoded IEEE 802.11 beacon information, a spectrum map, and TCP and UDP tests for iPerf3 servers. This feature is especially handy for users who have multiple nodes. Not only does Speed Test do standard speed tests well, but it also has a built-in Wi-Fi analyzer to help detail coverage in different parts of your home. The program's utilitarian design gives you very detailed information without any fluff. Speed Test WiFi Analyzer by analiti Experts Group might not be the prettiest speed test app, but it's definitely powerful. While you can use it a limited number of times with ads, to unlock unlimited testing, it will cost either $1.99/month, $7.99/year or $14.99/lifetime.Īpart from the cost, SpeedTest Master is robust and a must-have for anyone obsessed with connectivity. The downside to SpeedTest Master is that it's not free. If you're in a busy area with many signals, this app will let you know which is the best to ping off of, assuming that Wi-Fi connection is open to the public. Another cool feature is being able to analyze various Wi-Fi signals, informing you of which ones offer the best connection. It can also test Wi-Fi signal strength, letting you know where you need to position yourself for ideal connectivity. It offers a bevy of tools outside of simple speed tests, such as being able to measure the ping response time for PlayStation Network, Steam, YouTube, TikTok and social-media networks. SpeedTest Master is a powerful speed test app for both iOS and Android.