Internet lag? How to Perform a Wi-Fi Speed Test

To evaluate your Wi-Fi connection, you should perform an internet speed test. Knowing a few critical data points, such as your download and upload speeds, can help you understand connectivity changes and determine if your internet service provider is keeping their word.

If you're particularly concerned about getting the fastest internet speed, skipping Wi-Fi and hunting through your closet for an Ethernet cable is your best chance. Simon Hill, a WIRED contributor, has a nice section on buying an internet router that explains the basics and what you need for superb Wi-Fi speed and strength across your home. To begin with, connection speed is commonly defined in megabits per second (Mbps), and the FCC's internet speed guide estimates the speeds you'll need for everyday tasks like downloading files, streaming movies, and browsing through social media.

On Your Computer

Google integrated a speed test into its search engine with the help of Measurement Lab. When you search for "internet speed test," the top result is a blue button titled Run Speed Test, which will give you measurements of your download and upload speeds.

When it comes to finding out what's accessible in your area, Speedtest by Ookla is a popular and trustworthy option. The test can be started by tapping the enormous Go button in the centre of the website's homepage.

With the help of Measurement Lab, Google included a speed test into its search engine. When you Google "internet speed test," the first result is a blue button labeled "Run Speed Test," which will provide you with download and upload speed measurements.

Speedtest by Ookla is a popular and reliable tool for determining what is available in your area. Start the test by tapping the large Go button in the center of the website's homepage.

On Your Smartphone or Tablet

You may download apps devoted to evaluating your internet speed on smartphones and tablets in addition to doing tests in a browser. The Speedtest from Ookla contains all of the essentials, such as download and upload speeds. Additionally, the program has a video streaming speed test that estimates your maximum resolution.

Another good choice is the Speedcheck app, however the adverts are a little more intrusive. Both alternatives will ask for information from you. If you're concerned about your personal information being sold to commercial marketers, the government now has an official app called the FCC Speed Test that will provide you with similar information.

On Your Game Console

When playing online video games, having a stable internet connection with no lag is essential. Instead of blaming your losses on a slow internet connection, conduct a speed test on your Nintendo, PlayStation, or Xbox system to discover if you really do need a boost.

To measure your download and upload speeds on a Nintendo Switch, go to System Settings, then Internet, and then Test Connection. Go to Settings, then Network, and then the Test Internet Connection button on a PlayStation. If you want to know how fast your Xbox is, press the Xbox button on your controller and go to Profile & system, then Settings, General, then Network settings until you see this option: Check the network speed.

On Your Smart TV

Streaming movies in 4K might also eat up a lot of your available bandwidth. A speed test can be performed using the web browser on your smart TV for easy access. Additional options for checking the quality of your connection are available from some manufacturers. TCL smart TVs, for example, have a download speed test option in the Settings menu. LG suggests downloading the Internet Speed 2 app. Sony recommends utilizing the VUDU app's built-in speed test.