Internet connection speed testing software is a feature hosted by many servers that allows computer users to test the download speed, or bandwidth, of their Internet connections. Actual speeds may be much lower than what is advertised by an Internet service provider.
Function
Internet connection speed tests work by sending your computer a file. Their server monitors the download of this file. Sometimes, speed tests also monitor the upload speed of a connection by having your computer send that file back to their server. After monitoring the transfers, it can display statistics.
Significance
Although the main function of Internet connection speed tests is to sate the curiosity of people wondering how their connection stacks up to the rest, it can provide useful information regarding how well an ISP is following through on bandwidth promises and whether or not an upgrade may be a good idea.
Considerations
It's a good idea to test Internet connection speeds at non-peak times and while no network access is already occurring. Another computer or application using your connection's bandwidth will lower its performance in the test.
It may also be a good idea to run several Internet connection speed tests to gather more data for a more accurate result. Try CNET's Bandwidth Meter, AuditMyPC's Internet Speed Test and SpeedTest.net.
Tags: Internet connection, Internet connection speed, speed tests, connection speed, connection speed tests