Understanding your speed test results
A speed test measures how quickly data moves between your device and the internet. The three numbers that matter most are:
- Download speed: how fast you receive data (streaming, browsing, downloads). Measured in megabits per second (Mbps).
- Upload speed: how fast you send data (video calls, posting photos, backups).
- Ping & jitter: latency and its variation, measured in milliseconds. Critical for gaming and calls.
Tips for an accurate test
- Test on a wired connection when possible, or sit near the router.
- Pause downloads, streaming and other devices first.
- Turn off your VPN for your raw line speed, then test again with it on to see the impact.
- Run it a few times and take the best result.
Slow speeds? Check these
If results are far below your plan, restart your router, move closer to it, or contact your ISP. You can also confirm your IP and ISP and your connection locationto make sure you're routed sensibly.
Frequently asked questions
How does this internet speed test work?
It downloads and uploads random data between your browser and Cloudflare's global network, measures how fast it moves, then reports your download speed, upload speed, ping (latency) and jitter. Everything runs in your browser, with no app needed.
What is a good internet speed?
For one person browsing and HD streaming, 25 Mbps download is comfortable. For 4K streaming, gaming and multiple users, 100 Mbps or more is ideal. Upload of 10 Mbps+ is good for video calls and uploading files.
What is ping and jitter?
Ping (latency) is how long data takes to make a round trip, measured in milliseconds, and lower is better, especially for gaming and calls. Jitter is how much that ping varies. High jitter causes stutter in video calls and online games.
Why is my speed test result lower than my plan?
Wi-Fi interference, distance from the router, other devices using bandwidth, VPNs, and your device itself can all reduce measured speed. For the most accurate result, test on a wired connection with nothing else running.
Does the speed test use my data?
Yes. A single run transfers roughly 20 to 30 MB. On a metered or mobile connection, keep that in mind before running it repeatedly.