How to test broadband speed properly
In short: For a meaningful result, use a wired connection to your router if you can, close other apps and downloads, and run the test a few times at different times of day. Speed tests measure the link between your device and the test server—they don’t guarantee what you’ll get in every app. If Wi‑Fi feels slow but the test is fine, see our guide on why Wi‑Fi can feel slow.
What a speed test actually measures
A speed test sends data between your device and a server on the internet and measures how much data can be sent in a short time. So it’s measuring the path from your device to that server—not necessarily the speed you’ll get to every website or service. It’s still the standard way to check whether your line is performing roughly as expected.
Wired vs Wi‑Fi
Testing over Wi‑Fi can show lower speeds because of signal strength, interference, and other devices. For a fair check of your broadband line, plug a computer into the router with an Ethernet cable and test again. If the wired result is much higher, the issue may be Wi‑Fi rather than the line—see our Wi‑Fi guide.
When and how often to test
Run the test when other people aren’t heavily using the connection, and close streaming, downloads, and big uploads. Run it a few times—including at different times of day—to see a range. One low result can be a blip; consistent low results may justify a conversation with your provider.
What to look for
Note download and upload (Mbps). Compare with what your package says (e.g. “up to 36 Mbps”). You won’t always get the “up to” figure; see our insight on how to read speed claims. If you’re consistently well below what you’d reasonably expect, contact your provider—they may run a line check.
Latency and jitter
If you care about gaming or video calls, look at latency (ping) and jitter, not just Mbps. Use a tool like Laggy.uk for that. See our insight on why latency matters.