Having slow internet can be a headache, especially when you’re just trying to do something online — such as streaming a movie, chatting with friends, ordering food online, or simply browsing your social media feed. But then you run a speed test, and it says your internet is fast and nothing’s wrong. Well, there’s definitely something wrong, and we’re here to break it down for you.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about the common issue most internet users face, which is having slow internet, but speed test says it’s fast. Let’s begin!
What Is a Speed Test?
A speed test is like a report card for your internet connection. It’s a simple tool that helps you measure how quickly data can travel from one point to another on the internet. When you run a speed test, it’s like sending a message to a special computer (server) somewhere on the internet and asking, “Hey, how fast can you send and receive data?”
That server sends a message back to your device to let you know how long it took for the message to make that roundtrip. The speed test result is displayed in Mbps or megabits per second, which is the standard measure of how quickly data can move between your device and the server.
So, for example, if you have an Always On WiFi plan that offers 130Mbps download speed, your speed test result should show a number near that advertised speed. But always manage your expectations whenever you perform a speed test because there are many factors in play, like the type of connection you have (wired or wireless), the time you took the speed test, and the number of devices connected to your internet.
Are Internet Speed Tests Reliable?
The answer is both yes and no. Speed tests are pretty good at measuring the maximum speed your connection can handle under ideal conditions. So, if your speed test result shows a high number, let’s say 100Mbps, it only means that your connection can indeed go that fast when conditions are perfect. With this feature, it means that it can help you determine if your home broadband internet provider is really giving you what you pay for.
However, speed tests have their limitations. Here’s why:
- Server Location
The distance between your device and the test server matters. If the server is far away, it might show a slower speed, even if your internet connection is fast. Conversely, if the server is closed, it might show a faster speed.
- Network Traffic
Imagine a highway during rush hour – it can get really slow, right? Well, the same happens on the internet. During peak usage times when many people are online, your internet can slow down due to all the digital traffic, even if your ISP is delivering the speed you pay for.
- Home Network Setup
Your internet experience can also be affected by what’s going on inside your home. If your modem, router, or Wi-Fi setup isn’t up to par, it can slow things down, and a speed test won’t tell you about these issues.
Also, the result will vary if you’re using wireless internet. In most cases, you’ll get higher average speeds on a wired connection compared to WiFi. It’s because data can flow quickly and without much interruption compared to WiFi.
Why Does This Happen?
- Server Location – If the speed test server is far away, it can make your internet appear slower due to the longer distance data must travel.
- Network Traffic – During busy times, like rush hour on a highway, the internet can get congested, slowing down your connection despite your ISP delivering promised speeds.
- Home Network Issues – Outdated or misconfigured modems, routers, or Wi-Fi setups can create bottlenecks, affecting your internet speed.
- Wireless vs. Wired – Wi-Fi, which shares airwaves with other devices, can lead to slower speeds. Wired connections through Ethernet cables often provide a more stable, faster experience.
How to Fix Slow Internet but Speed Test Says It’s Fast
You have to understand that this is a common issue, regardless of your internet provider or internet plan. Although frustrating, you can take some steps to fix this problem. Here’s how:
- Check Your Plan
Ensure your internet plan matches your needs, especially for streaming and remote work. For example, if you have an internet plan that isn’t enough for your daily online tasks, it’s best to switch to a better internet plan.
- Contact Your ISP
If you face consistent slowdowns, reach out to your ISP for checks and suggestions.
- Choose Closer Servers
Pick nearby servers for more accurate speed test results.
- Off-Peak Usage
Schedule data-heavy tasks during off-peak hours to avoid congestion.
- Restart Router
Refresh your router by unplugging it briefly for potential speed improvements.
- Upgrade Equipment
Consider newer modems and routers for better speed and coverage.
- Optimize Wi-Fi
Adjust Wi-Fi settings, update firmware, and position the router centrally.
- Use Wired Connection
For stability, use Ethernet cables for tasks like gaming or video calls.
- Limit Connected Devices
Disconnect inactive devices to free up bandwidth.
- Regular Speed Test
Monitor your internet performance with periodic speed tests at different times of the day.
Wrapping Up
We all understand the frustration of slow internet when you need it the most. While speed tests are a valuable tool for assessing your connection’s capabilities, they don’t always tell the whole story. Factors like server location, network traffic, home network setup, and your choice between wired and wireless connections can influence your internet speed.
