How do I test my internet speed?

How To Test Your Internet Speed Using A Web Application

One of the easiest and most common ways of testing your broadband speed at home is through a free web application. As a general rule, internet speed tests take anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute. Additionally, they transfer roughly 40 MB of data, so bear that in mind if you have a data-based usage plan. 

You can also test your broadband speed through any of the following web-based apps:  

• Fast.com 
• Ookla Speedtest 
• AT&T Highspeed Internet Speed Test 
• SpeedSmart 
• Internet Health Test 
  
  

How To Test Your Internet Speed Using Your Mobile Phone

There are also several apps available for both iOS and Android for testing your internet speed. While they all do more-or-less the same job, a good, broad-scope internet speed testing app is the Speedtest by Ookla app. Available for both iPhone and Android, you can test your broadband’s download and upload speeds. 

Things That May Impact Your Broadband Speed Test 

If you run an internet speed test and find that it’s not quite up to what you were expecting, there may be a few things that may be impacting your test.  

Your broadband speed test results may be impacted by several factors, including:  

• The device you performed the test on (older devices may not give accurate results)  
• How many devices are currently using the network  
• The distance between your device and the router or network access point  
• If it was a busier time of day  ​ 

​​​Wi-Fi signals can be influenced by factors such as distance, obstacles (walls, furniture), interference from other devices, and signal congestion from nearby Wi-Fi networks. These factors can cause fluctuations in the speed and stability of the Wi-Fi connection, potentially leading to inconsistent or unreliable speed test results.​​ 

How To Improve My Broadband Speed?

​If you aren’t getting the broadband speeds you expected, try some of the following actions when testing your internet speed*: 

• ​Move the device you’re running the speed test on closer to the router or access point 
• Restart the router 
• Move your router or access point to a central location of your home where walls and floors will cause minimal obstruction to the wireless signal 
• Ensure that you aren’t using the 2.4 GHz WiFi band while testing for 5 GHz speeds 
• Use a different or newer device to retest 

If none of the above helps, you should consider contacting your internet provider to ensure that everything is configured and working correctly.  

Switch to Wildanet’s Hyperfast Broadband 

Wildanet is an independent Cornish-based internet service provider, bringing high-speed broadband to homes, businesses and ​rural ​communities throughout Cornwall and the South West.    

Cornwall still has countless communities suffering with poor quality internet connection. This makes life harder for many families and businesses, putting them at a distinct disadvantage to the rest of the UK. Wildanet is working to change this​, investing millions in​​     ​a new high-speed digital network for Cornwall and the South West. This will give many thousands of people access to high-speed broadband and digital connectivity for generations to come. 

For more details and to check if our service is available in your area, enter your postcode here or call our local​ team on 0800 0699906.