| "> | | | | which is change in internet traffic. As more log on to |
| You can easily determine the speed of your internet | | | | the internet using the same internet service provider as |
| connection bandwidth by using websites that offer | | | | yours, for example, speed decreases. The size of the |
| free bandwidth tests. But do these sites really | | | | file sent by the bandwidth tester also has an effect on |
| measure the 'real-time' performance of your web | | | | the result - try another bandwidth tester that sends |
| connection? Read on to understand how bandwidth | | | | smaller files and you might get a higher speed figure. |
| tests really work, and bust the misconceptions you | | | | Also, if many people were using the bandwidth test |
| have about them. | | | | server at the time of your test, your results may be |
| Understanding bandwidth tests | | | | compromised. |
| A bandwidth test is actually a program that measures | | | | How do you get accurate bandwidth test results? |
| your internet speed by sending one or more files of | | | | The only way to get a more accurate bandwidth |
| predetermined size over a network to your computer. | | | | speed result is to repeat the test over and over, using |
| It then measures the time it takes for your computer | | | | different sites, if you can. Some experts say that you |
| to download the sent file. The result - which is the | | | | should conduct the test at least six times in four or |
| measure of your internet speed - is a figure | | | | more different sites. List down all the results of each |
| expressed in either kilobits per second (kbps) or | | | | bandwidth test from the highest to the lowest. |
| megabits per second (mbps). | | | | Disregard the top and bottom third of the list and |
| Remember that figures resulting from bandwidth tests | | | | concentrate on the middle figures. Average these |
| are only 'theoretical' - they may fluctuate greatly | | | | figures, and you get a pretty accurate figure |
| because of several factors, the most common of | | | | representing your normal internet speed. |