Understanding Speedtest

F

Freerunner

Member
I need help understanding how speedtest works. I know it is advocated a lot on this site and I myself have used it several times. The questions I have are things such as how do I know which server to send it (I currently let it pick it's own)? Also when I do back to back tests (even on the same server), the results can be significantly different (e.g. 3.5 download first time, 0.15 download the second time). Is this normal? I am currently in a house using satellite for an internet connection.

Thanks
 
Speedtest will automatically pick the closest, best server. And the fact your download fluctuate's like that is most likely your ISP's fault, I would call them. Could be the modem, router, or your ethernet/WiFi card in your computer.
 
I understand that speedtest will pick the closest and best, but is that also what my ISP is doing? I would think that I would want to test the same server that they are using, or is that even possible?
 
Freerunner said:
I understand that speedtest will pick the closest and best, but is that also what my ISP is doing? I would think that I would want to test the same server that they are using, or is that even possible?
Click to expand...

Yes, ISPs use the closest server complex to deliver internet to your home.

Speedtest uses an assortment of servers owned by various ISPs, communications companies, and universities. You can only pick among the list they provide, and if that server happens to be the same one your ISP uses to get internet into your home, more power to you.
 
Freerunner said:
OK, thanks for the explanation. One last question. What am I looking for regarding the "ping"? Or should I care?
Click to expand...

Ping is the latency (delay) between the communication of your computer to the server providing your internet. Usually measured in milliseconds. Basically it's how long the signal takes to get from the internet server to your computer.
 
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