by When it comes to internet services, you might have signed up for the best package available but that doesn’t that you’re necessarily getting the internet speed you expect.
There are numerous ways to test what speed you’re actually getting on your internet line, but the most used one is speedtest.net
While this is a fantastic tool for determining your current internet speed, you still need to be able to decipher the information displayed.
Internet Speed Terms, What Does It All Mean:
Latency
This is the amount of time it takes for a request sent from your device to receive a response from the internet. The lower the latency, the better.
Download speed
The speed of your incoming data, measured in megabits per second (Mbps). It shows how quickly your device loads websites,streaming media and more.
If your ISP is doing a great job, the download speed should be close to the one mentioned when you signed up for your plan. If you’re unsure about the internet speed you’re paying for, contact your provider.
Upload speed
This is the speed of outgoing data, measured in megabits per second (Mbps). Upload speed is important because so much online activity is interactive.
If your upload speed is lower than your download speed, this is normal (unless you have fibre).
Firewall
Tests if your local area network (LAN) is protected by a firewall.
Packet Loss
Packets are digital packages which are sent virtually rather than through a mail service. Packet loss refers to the percentage of packets which do not reach their destination. A high packet loss volume can have a negative impact on your streaming media or online games.
Download Speeds
1–4 Mbps
This is the generally lowest service available. E-mail and most websites will load, and many music streaming services will work without interruption, as will VoIP services, however video streaming sites will buffer.
4–6 Mbps
This is the average speed available to many internet users in South Africa. This speed will allow some file sharing and should work fine for video on demand services, however it will not always allow you to stream content in full HD.
6–10 Mbps
If you’re into online gaming and VOD (video-on-demand) services, this is the speed that you should start looking at.
10–15 Mbps
This speed will allow you to stream VOD services and web-based applications without any issues. You will also be able to stream full HD content without any buffering.
15–50 Mbps
If you have a quite a few devices connected to your network and you want to use them at the same time without slowing down your internet speed, then this is the speed that you want. You will also be able to stream 4K video content without too many issues.
