Speed Test Basics

What is a speed test? That is a good question and even if you think you know the answer, better read on. Namely, some metrics often get confused and so do some basic terms. Broadband and download speed are a good example of the latter, and as for the first... well, let's just say not many people like math.

Be that as it may, we will still attempt to simplify things. Allow us start by defining the difference between the two aforementioned terms.

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So, what is broadband? Nowadays, the term implies data transfer rate per second. It is important to remember that your connection might not be using broadband to the fullest. How so? Well, for one, if you're not the only network user or use multiple devices, your broadband is being distributed among ALL of the devices accessing the web.

Not necessarily must all programs and users be using an equal portion. As a matter of fact, most programs can be configured to use only a limited bandwidth volume. This is called bandwidth control, the same term being used for routers that can perform a similar action. Namely, some routers allow for assigning a specific bandwidth limit for each and every device accessing the web. Need we say that this comes in handy for households with multiple users, especially if some of them are prone to undisciplined online habits?

Further out, bandwidth is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) and so is download/upload speed.

Bandwidth Test Speed Metrics


Online test speed services provide info on your download and upload speed and ping. In some cases, they can offer additional information, but here we will attempt to keep to the essentials.

Test internet speed download and upload rates are expressed in Mbps, same as bandwidth, so don't get surprised if the test shows lower values. By default, all speed testing services assume only one device is accessing the web at a time. That is to say, if you want to get a realistic picture, make sure to perform the test while being the only single device user. The result? Simple: the higher the rate, the faster your online performance.

Conversely, the third parameter being metered - ping - is optimal when at its lowest. Ping measures latency in a network and represents response time between the participating devices. It is expressed in milliseconds (ms).

Pro Tip 1: In case the speed test result is considerably lower, consider the following:

Firstly, make sure to stop all downloads and turn off software accessing the Internet. Included here are all kinds of updates. Assuming you are performing a speed check while the only online user, make sure to use a wired Ethernet connection. You probably know that some home appliances interfere with your connection, and so do nearby wireless networks. If neither helps your case, make sure to restart your modem/router and perform another check.

If even that hasn't helped, calling your ISP sounds like a good idea. However, before you do that, know two things. The first is that your ISP does not guarantee maximum speeds at all times (clearly stated in your agreement). Check the fine print and you will see that it includes the phrase "up to". Lower speeds can be expected during peak hours, and so can other measures. E.g., have you heard of bandwidth throttling? This curiously coined term describes the practice of limiting either all traffic or certain traffic types (streaming, more often than not). It is all about preventing congestion. Fortunately, bandwidth throttling does not occur often.

Improving Your Speed Check Performance

Your speed check can be improved (and stay improved!) dramatically if you think ahead of time. In the long run, certain initial investments can spare you loads of trouble in the future. The list is topped by dual-band technology, make no mistake about that.

Up till now, we've been musing about bandwidth speed alone, but here we are to introduce wave frequency. It is the most important factor when considering wireless network performance. Namely, most home appliances operate at 2.4 GHz frequency, and, unfortunately, so does your wireless network. If you don't have a dual-band modem or a Wi-Fi adapter, that is. Dual-band routers support 2.4 and 5 GHz channels and also use MIMO radio configurations, which guarantee substantially better home network performance.

Pro Tip 2: A dual-band router (or adapter) is certain to make your day. Every day! Don't worry about the price too much as, as stated throughout this article, these lovely contraptions are certain to pay off in the end. They will do wonders for your speed test results!

Pro Tip 3: If you are the only network user, you can disregard the previous tip. What you need to keep in mind are the actual prerequisites. Charms of IM are indeed not lost on most internet users, and why should they be? Fast communication with people around the globe is, after all, what makes the Internet the revolution it is. Ever wondered what the actual requirements for some chatting are? Video calls? Streaming music and videos while enjoying a pleasant conversation with your high school friend residing abroad? Wonder no more! Listed below are the recommended speeds for some of the most popular online services.

• Skype: For voice calls: at least 0.1 Mbps download and 0.1 Mbps upload;
• Skype: For video calls: at least 0.5 Mbps download and 0.5 Mbps upload;
• For HD video calls: at least 1.5 Mbps download and 1.5 Mbps upload.
• YouTube: 0.5 Mbps and up - download.
• Netflix: 1.5 Mbps and up - download. For HD quality: 5.0 Mbps +.

Pro Tip 4: The requirements for most popular online activities are, as follows:

• 1 Mbps for compressed music and SD quality video;
• 2 Mbps for lossless music and SD quality video;
• 5 Mbps for HD video.
• 10 Mbps for full HD video;
• 25 Mbps for ultra HD video.

As you can see, when deciding on the best internet package, you need to consider three things: the number of users/devices, connection type, and user(s)' online habits.

WUDO Speed Test Issues

Windows 10 implements Windows Update Delivery Optimization (better known as WUDO), which guarantees considerably faster software updates via P2P sharing. That is to say that, as long as WUDO is active, any Win10 user will be able access your computer at their own convenience. Not a nice thing, that, but, on the other hand, you have the very same privilege.

In any case, P2P can be real pain in the neck if you are about to enjoy... well, pretty much any online streaming activity. Your speed test will tell you that, if you care for confirmation. Fortunately, WUDO can be turned off, but, as ever with Windows, you'll need to be a pro to make your computer obey you over the OS. The process is actually quite straightforward - just follow the steps below:

Start -> Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update -> Advanced Options -> Choose how updates are delivered -> Updates from more than one place -> Off

With this hindrance gone, you will be able to enjoy the charms of the Internet to your heart's content.

Don't forget to delight in a nice cup of coffee while chatting with your high school friend! With your dual band modem, the coffee maker won't pose a threat ever again!

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