How to do an accurate broadband speed test
For an accurate result, connect a device to the router with an Ethernet cable, pause downloads and streaming on everything else, close background apps, and run the test two or three times to get a representative figure. Wired beats Wi-Fi for testing your true line speed, because Wi-Fi adds its own limits.
Last updated: · Written by The NetSorted team
A speed test is only useful if it’s accurate. A few simple steps make the difference between a meaningful result and a misleading one.
Set up for an accurate test
- Go wired. Plug a device into the router with an Ethernet cable — Wi-Fi adds its own limits and understates your line speed.
- Quiet the network. Pause downloads, streaming and big uploads on every other device.
- Close background apps. Cloud backups and updates can skew the result.
- Run it a few times. Two or three runs give a representative figure.
Interpreting the result
Compare your download figure with your plan’s advertised speed and what’s typical for your connection type — the speed test does this for you and gives a verdict. If you’re not sure what you should be getting, see what speed should I get?.
Test Wi-Fi separately
If you also want to know what a specific room gets, run a separate test there on Wi-Fi. Comparing wired and Wi-Fi tells you whether a problem is your line or your Wi-Fi coverage.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get an accurate speed test result?
Use a wired (Ethernet) connection, pause other downloads and streaming, close background apps, and run the test two or three times. Wi-Fi adds its own limits, so it understates your true line speed.
Why is my speed test result different each time?
Results vary with the time of day, the test server, what else is using your connection, and Wi-Fi conditions. Running it a few times, wired and with other devices idle, gives a more reliable picture.
Should I test on Wi-Fi or wired?
Test wired to measure your true broadband line speed. Test on Wi-Fi separately if you want to see what a particular room or device actually gets.
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