Broadband speed test

How to test your broadband speed

1. Connect your computer to your router with a network cable if you can.
2. Close other apps and pause streaming or downloads on other devices in your home.
3. Press Start speed test above and wait about 20 seconds.
4. Note your download, upload and ping, then repeat at a busy time, around 8pm to 10pm.
5. Compare your result with the minimum guaranteed speed your provider gave you when you signed up.

Which broadband speed test should I use?

Any good test measures download, upload and ping. Ours runs in your browser, needs no sign-up or app, and CompareDirect does not save your result. If you want a second opinion, Ofcom also suggests checking results more than once and on a wired connection, because Wi-Fi and busy times can lower the figures.

Tips for an accurate result

• Plug into your router with a cable if you can — Wi-Fi is usually slower.
• Pause streaming, downloads and game updates on other devices.
• Run the test two or three times, at different times of day.
• Turn off any VPN, as it can slow the result.

What the numbers mean

• Download — how fast things reach you: streaming, web pages, downloads.
• Upload — how fast you send things: video calls, sending photos, online backups.
• Ping — response time in milliseconds. Lower is better; under 30 ms is good for gaming and calls.

Slower than you pay for?

Most UK providers have signed Ofcom's broadband speeds code. It means they must give you a minimum guaranteed speed when you sign up, and if your speed stays below it and they can't fix it, you can usually leave your contract without paying a fee. Check Ofcom's guide to broadband speeds.

Results depend on your device, Wi-Fi and the test server, so treat them as a guide. Want something faster? Compare broadband deals.

Related

• Compare broadband deals
• Check broadband availability
• Cheaper social tariffs
• Broadband providers