Speedtest by Ookla

Speedtest checks how fast your connection is by sending test data to a nearby server. It reports download speed, upload speed and ping (the delay in the connection).

How to read the results

• Download: matters for streaming and browsing.
• Upload: matters for video calls and sharing large files.
• Ping: a lower number feels more responsive for calls and games.

Why numbers vary

Results depend on the time of day, how many people share the connection, the distance from the router and the test server chosen. Test two or three times, and test next to the router before you blame your internet provider.

A test uses mobile data, so run it on Wi-Fi if you have a limited plan. If your phone seems slow too, see our battery and settings guide.

Reading Speedtest results with sense

• Test near the router first, then in the room where you actually use the internet. The difference shows whether the problem is coverage or your plan.
• Run two or three tests at different times of day and compare them, rather than relying on one.
• Compare the result with the speed you pay for. Wi-Fi speeds are normally lower than the plan speed.
• Use Wi-Fi for tests if your mobile plan is limited, because every test uses data.

Our take

A single speed test tells you little. Results change with time of day, distance from the router and the server chosen, so run it three times at the spot where you actually use the internet. Test next to the router first before blaming your provider, and use Wi-Fi if your mobile plan is limited.

How it plays out day to day

A family blames the internet provider for slow video calls. A test next to the router gives good speed while a test in the bedroom is slow, which shows the problem is the Wi-Fi coverage, not the provider.

More on Guj Times

If the phone feels slow in general, read our battery and settings guide and data usage tips.

Questions people ask

What is a good ping?

A lower number feels more responsive; it matters most for calls and games.

Does the test use data?

Yes, so avoid repeating it on a limited mobile plan.