High-speed Internet access--at speeds faster than 56k--is key for more efficient web surfing and running many websites. Anything faster than 56k may be considered high-speed Internet access, but different people may actually experience different speeds. Check a computer's actual download and upload speed to see if you're getting the speed you expected.

Internet Speed Tests

With the plethora of different Internet service providers, Internet packages and networking hardware available, Internet speed can vary significantly, even between two computers using the same Internet service. The easiest way to test a computer's Internet speed is to use a free Internet speed tester. Many websites like Speedtest.net and Speakeasy.net can test Internet connections by uploading and downloading data from your computer. Many of these sites will even display your Internet speed as a graphical readout or speedometer. If given the option, choose a server location near to your physical location to get the best results.

Network Monitoring

Another way to check a computer's Internet connection speed is to monitor the utilization of the network adapter. For Windows-based PCs, the networking tab of the task manager tool (press control, alt and delete to bring up the manager) will display the utilization of your network devices. To calculate the speed of your Internet connection, multiply the network device's utilization percentage by the maximum link speed. Keep the manager open while you use the Internet to monitor changes in network usage. If a computer is not connected to the Internet, it is still possible the check whether it has networking devices installed that will enable it to accept a high-speed Internet connection. One way to check network hardware is to use the task manager networking tab. You can find more detailed information about networking hardware by using the device manager tool.

Other Tests

Perhaps the best way to test the practical speed of an Internet connection is to use the connection. Downloading files from websites and streaming movies online are common tasks run on high-speed connections; an easy way to test speed is to download a large file--a movie trailer, or program, for example--and check the browser's download window for the transfer speed. Downloading or uploading files using BitTorrent or other peer-to-peer network is another way to check speed.

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Info on checking network devices

Info on internet speed testing