A simple speed test to check your connection

The definitions for the terminology used in the speed test can be found below.

Download Speed: The speed of the connection when downloading from the Internet to your computer.

Upload Speed: The speed of the connection when uploading data from your computer to another computer somewhere on the Internet.

Latency: A synonym for delay, latency is an expression of how much time it takes for a packet of data to get from one designated point to another. In the Measuring Broadband America study, latency was measured by sending a packet that is returned to the sender and the round-trip time is considered the latency.

The bandwidth speed you get depends on lots of things, like network and Internet congestion, your computer's configuration, WiFi adapters used, others using Video On Demand or online gaming, the wiring in your location, etc. Therefore, we cannot guarantee a specific speed.

Your results will also be affected if you run the test while connected to a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Here are some things to check:

Are you plugged into your router?

Did you run the test while connected to a VPN?

If you subscribed to Fios internet service with 100Mbps or greater, are you using a 10/100/1000 gigabit Network Interface Card (NIC)?

There are a number of variables that could negatively and positively affect your internet connection speeds. Understanding each of them can help you determine the best solution for maximizing internet speed.

1. Check the amount of bandwidth included with your current internet services plan

One of the most impactful items that would affect your connection speeds is the amount of bandwidth included with your internet services package. If your plan includes a very limited amount of Megabits per second (Mbps), the units of measurement that determine network speed, you’re more likely to experience a lackluster online experience.

Verizon offers a variety of high-speed internet plans, including broadband DSL and Fios services, reaching download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 880 Mbps. Learn more about Fios Gigabit Connection to take advantage of Verizon’s fastest and most reliable network.

2. Be aware of the age of your hardware and software

Running old software on your computer system could slow down your internet connection, among many other things. Websites and applications are becoming more and more demanding, and utilizing antiquated operating systems and hardware will prevent you from enjoying the Internet, content streaming, and more.

3. Minimize the distance between your device and your router

If you’re connected to your network via a WiFi router, try to limit the distance between your device and the router. The further you get from your router, the slower your internet speeds will be.

Additionally, if your WiFi signal has to pass through multiple walls or appliances, like refrigerators, televisions, and microwaves, its signal will be weakened.

Using an ethernet connection can help to eliminate lag time between your computer and the signal sent from your router.

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