How to run an internet speed test

Running an internet speed test is a simple way to understand how your connection is performing. It can help you spot issues, set expectations, and decide whether your broadband is right for how you use it.

Introduction

If your internet feels slow or unreliable, a speed test is often the first place to start.

Whether you’re working from home, streaming, or just browsing, understanding your connection’s performance can help you work out whether there’s an issue or whether your setup simply isn’t suited to how you use the internet.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to run an internet speed test using a couple of simple methods, and what to look for when you get the results.

What you’ll need

Before you start, make sure:

• Your device is connected to the internet, either by Wi-Fi or Ethernet (Ethernet is best!)
• Other heavy usage on your network is paused if possible
• You’re using the device you normally rely on day to day
• You've disconnected any other devices from the Wi-Fi

You can run a speed test on most devices, such as phones, tables, computers and laptops.

Method 1: Browser-based speed tests

The easiest way to check your internet speed is to use the speed test built into this page.

Simply click Start below and the test will run automatically. There’s no need to open another website or download anything.

The test will measure:

• Download speed
• Upload speed
• Latency (sometimes called ping)

It usually takes less than a minute to complete, and your results will appear on the screen once it finishes.

For the most accurate result, try to avoid using other devices or streaming services while the test is running.

Method 2: Mobile speed test apps

If you prefer using your phone or tablet, speed test apps are widely available.

Search your app store for “internet speed test” and choose a well-reviewed app. Once installed, open it and start the test.

Apps are useful if:

• You want to test Wi-Fi performance in different rooms
• You mainly use mobile devices
• You want a quick snapshot while connected to your home network

Understanding your results

A speed test usually shows three key figures:

• Download speed (Mbps)
  How quickly data is delivered to your device. This affects streaming, browsing, and downloads.
• Upload speed (Mbps)
  How quickly data is sent from your device. This matters for video calls, file uploads, and remote work.
• Latency or ping (ms)
  How responsive your connection is. Lower numbers are better, especially for video calls and gaming.

Are speed tests 100% accurate?

Speed tests are useful, but they are not perfectly precise.

They measure performance at a specific moment in time, under specific conditions. That means results can vary from one test to the next, even on the same connection.

Several factors can affect accuracy, including:

• Wi-Fi signal strength and interference
• Other devices using the connection at the same time
• The device you’re testing on
• Time of day and network congestion
• Distance between your device and the test server

Because of this, a single speed test should be treated as a snapshot, not a final verdict on your broadband.

For a more reliable picture, it’s best to:

• Run the test more than once
• Test at different times of day
• Use a wired (Ethernet) connection if possible

Consistent results over multiple tests are far more meaningful than any one-off reading.

If your speed looks lower than expected

A slower result does not always mean there’s a fault.

Speed test results can be affected by:

• Wi-Fi interference
• Distance from your router
• Other devices using the connection at the same time
• Time of day

Running the test more than once, or testing using an Ethernet cable if possible, can give a clearer picture.

Why this matters

Speed tests are a useful diagnostic tool, but they’re only part of the story.

Consistent performance, stability, and support matter just as much as headline speeds. Understanding your connection helps you ask the right questions and make informed decisions.

Why Home Unity does this differently

We encourage customers to understand how their broadband performs in real life, not just rely on advertised figures.

When there’s a problem, we look at:

• Actual usage
• Network performance
• The setup in your home

That approach helps us recommend solutions that genuinely improve day-to-day reliability.

Final thoughts

Running a speed test is quick, simple, and often reassuring.

Used properly, it gives you insight into how your broadband is performing and whether it’s right for how you live and work.

Subscribe to the Home Unity blog for clear, honest broadband guidance, or build your package to see what’s available at your address.