SMB Technology
How to compare internet speeds
Taking the time to compare internet speeds can help you determine how fast your internet connection is compared to other internet service providers (ISPs) in your area.
You've gotten the flyers in the mail – those glossy postcards that feature speedy roadrunners, dust clouds, or lightning bolts, urging you to sign up and enjoy the blazing speed of Company X's ultra-fast broadband service. But how accurate are those numbers they quote to lure you into signing a contract? And is Company X really faster than the one you're currently using?
Visit CNET's Bandwidth Meter speed test. Fill out the online form with your telephone area code and the type of Internet connection you're currently using, such as cable, dial-up, or DSL. Then click Go. In a moment, you'll see a graph indicating the speed of your internet connection compared to other ISPs in your area, ranked by connection speed.
Next, find out how much it would cost to switch to a faster ISP. When we took the speed test, we found out that our current internet service, which costs $45 a month, was 899.5 Kbps (kilobits per second), which isn't bad for cable. If we wanted a faster connection, we’d have to spring for a T1 line, which starts at $329 a month. Sure, it would be great to have a 1536 Kbps connection, but for that price, we’ll stick with what I've got.
You can also use Intel’s broadband speed test to see how your computer is, or is not performing.
Is your computer up to snuff? Get the ultimate performance-rich computing experience by making your next purchase have one of the latest Intel® processors inside.
Published on: Monday, June 20, 2011
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