How to Test and Improve Your Internet Speed

If your internet feels slow, the first step is measuring your actual speed to see if you are getting what you pay for. Speed tests take less than a minute and tell you exactly how fast your connection is.

Go to speedtest.net or fast.com on your phone or computer. Tap "Go" or wait for the test to run automatically. It measures your download speed (how fast you receive data — important for streaming and browsing), upload speed (how fast you send data — important for video calls and uploading photos), and ping (response time — important for video calls and online games).

Compare your results to what you pay for. Check your internet plan for the advertised speed. If you are paying for 200 Mbps but only getting 50 Mbps, something is wrong.

Common fixes for slow internet: restart your router (unplug it, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in — this fixes many issues), connect via Ethernet cable instead of WiFi for the fastest speed, close unused apps and browser tabs (they use bandwidth in the background), move closer to your router, and check if other devices on your network are using heavy bandwidth (someone streaming 4K video or downloading large files).

If speeds are consistently well below what you pay for, call your internet provider. They can run diagnostics from their end and may need to send a technician. If you are renting their modem/router, ask if it is outdated and needs replacement.

Run speed tests at different times of day. Internet speeds often slow down during peak hours (evenings) when everyone in your neighborhood is online. If peak speeds are a lot lower, your provider's network may be congested in your area.