Test your internet connection

Internet performance can fluctuate based on your internet service provider (ISP), your network, and your computer configuration. You can use the following tools to test your upload and download speeds and to troubleshoot connectivity issues.

Testing upload and download speeds

While the speed tests that are available from the following websites can help you to identify problems, you might need outside assistance to isolate and correct problems.
The speed test that is available at http://www.speedtest.net/nl can help you to identify problems, but you might need outside assistance to isolate and correct problems.
The following table includes average speeds for different types of connections. We provide these numbers so you can compare your speed test results to them.
Type of connection
Average speed
DSL (128k)
128 kbps
DSL (256k)
256 kbps
Cable/DSL (384k)
384 kbps
Cable/DSL (768k)
768 kbps
Cable/DSL (1.5Mbps)
1500 kbps
Full T-1
1544 kbps
If the speed tests identified a problem, restart your network router and/or modem and then run the speed test again. If you don’t see an improvement, contact your network specialist (if you have one) or your ISP to determine whether steps such as changing your network hardware or updating your software will correct the problem.

Troubleshooting connectivity issues

You can use detection tools, such as PingPlotter from Nessoft, LLC, to troubleshoot connectivity problems. These tools can provide additional information about your internet connection.