Published on May 2, 2025 5 min read

The Right Way to Check Your Internet Speed

Are you frustrated by lags while streaming a movie or joining a video call? If so, you might rely on a speed test, but can you trust those numbers? Many people overlook factors like background apps and server choice that can skew results. If you depend on these numbers to troubleshoot issues, upgrade your plan, or hold your provider accountable, accuracy is essential. Testing your connection the right way doesn't require much effort but does require intention. Let's break down how to do it properly.

What Is an Internet Speed Test?

An internet speed test measures how fast data travels from your device to the internet and back. It focuses on three key elements: download speed, upload speed, and latency (also called ping). Download speed gauges how quickly you can download data from the web, such as Netflix or YouTube. Upload speed indicates how quickly your device can send data, useful for video chat or file uploading. Ping tests the response time of your connection, which is critical for activities requiring real-time communication, like gaming.

Most speed tests work by pinging packets of data back and forth from your device to a nearby server. While this reduces geographic latency, if the server is extremely fast or slow, your readings can be skewed. Factors like the hour of the day or other devices accessing the internet in your home can also alter your results. Simply clicking "Go" on the first website you come across won't cut it.

Different speed test providers use various servers, packet sizes, and algorithms, leading to varying results. One test might report 150 Mbps, while another says 120 Mbps. Which is right? That depends on how controlled your testing environment is.

Setting Up the Right Conditions for Testing

To test your internet speed accurately, your setup must be clean. This doesn't mean physically dusting off your router; it means minimizing all background noise on your network. Disconnect or pause anything that might be using the internet, like smartphones, smart TVs, tablets, and even cloud backup software that could be running quietly in the background.

Whenever possible, use a wired connection. While Wi-Fi is convenient, it is notorious for inconsistent performance due to signal interference, device limitations, or range issues. To see your connection’s real potential, plug your device directly into your modem or router using an Ethernet cable, eliminating extra variables.

If you're stuck with Wi-Fi, stay close to the router, ideally in the same room. Walls, furniture, and even other electronics can interfere with the signal. Always test from a device that isn't running updates or unnecessary apps in the background, as system updates can slow down the process.

Timing also plays a significant role. Internet traffic varies throughout the day, with peak hours—usually early evenings—potentially slowing things down due to network congestion. Running tests multiple times throughout the day will give you a better sense of your connection's consistency.

Finally, restart your modem and router before testing. It sounds cliché, but power cycling can resolve minor bugs or traffic buildup that may affect the outcome. It’s a simple step that often goes overlooked.

Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Internet speed test tools vary in accuracy and reliability. For precise results, choose a tool that allows manual server selection, displays real-time performance graphs, and avoids ad-heavy interfaces that might skew results. While flashy designs are appealing, technical accuracy and clean operation make a real difference in serious testing.

Speedtest by Ookla is a popular tool offering server selection and test history. However, it may occasionally connect to high-speed servers that don't reflect typical internet experiences. Fast.com, operated by Netflix, focuses solely on download speeds, making it ideal for streaming but less comprehensive for overall speed analysis.

For users wanting deep, long-term data, TestMy.net is excellent. It tracks hourly tests, supports multiple locations, and can help spot trends like throttling or inconsistent service. Consistency matters most. Pick a tool, stick with it, and compare results over time.

Avoid using your ISP's speed test when troubleshooting. Their servers are tuned for favorable results and may not reflect your experience. Trust tools that give you an honest view of your connection, not just a pretty number.

Making Sense of the Results—and Acting on Them

Once you test your internet speed accurately, the next step is understanding the numbers. A 200 Mbps download speed might look impressive, but if video calls still stutter, that number alone isn’t telling the whole story. Upload speed and latency matter just as much. Ideally, download speeds above 100 Mbps work for most homes, upload speeds should be at least 10 Mbps, and latency should stay under 50 ms for smooth real-time activity.

If your speeds are lower than your plan promises—and you’ve tested under ideal conditions—it might be time to contact your provider. Keep a log of your tests, with times and results. A consistent pattern speaks louder than a single bad test.

Still facing issues despite decent test results? The culprit could be inside your home network. Outdated routers, overloaded Wi-Fi, or a single device hogging bandwidth can cause slowdowns. Sometimes, it's not the internet—it's everything connected to it.

Conclusion

Accurately testing your internet speed isn’t about running a quick check—it’s about creating the right conditions, using a consistent tool, and understanding what the results mean. By following a simple, thoughtful process, you can identify issues, track performance, and make informed decisions. Don’t settle for vague numbers or unreliable results. Take control of your connection by testing with purpose, consistency, and clarity. The right method makes all the difference—and now you know how to do it properly.