WiFi Speed Test: Why You Should Run One

Today, almost every task depends on internet connectivity and slow or unreliable WiFi can be a major disruption. Whether you're streaming a movie, attending a video call, or gaming online, a sluggish connection can ruin the experience.

Running a WiFi speed test is one of the simplest ways to evaluate your internet performance and check for potential issues. It helps you understand your network’s strengths and weaknesses to help you get the most out of your internet plan. Let’s learn what a WiFi speed test is, why it’s important, and how to use the results effectively.

What Is a WiFi Speed Test?

A WiFi speed test is a tool that measures the performance of your internet connection. It evaluates three key metrics:

Download speed

How fast data is received from the internet. This affects activities like streaming, downloading files, or browsing websites.

Upload speed

How fast data is sent to the internet. This is crucial for activities like video calls, sending large files, or online gaming.

Ping or latency

The response time of your connection. Low latency is essential for real-time tasks like online gaming and video conferencing.

Most speed tests provide results within seconds and are accessible through websites or mobile apps.

Why You Should Run a WiFi Speed Test

Running a WiFi speed test can provide numerous benefits:

1. Identify Slow Internet Speeds

If streaming video buffers or webpages load slowly, a speed test can confirm whether your connection is delivering the speeds promised by your internet service provider (ISP).

2. Optimize Your Network Setup

WiFi signals can be affected by various factors, such as interference from walls, electronic devices, or outdated routers. A speed test helps you identify weak spots in your home where signal strength is poor, enabling you to adjust your setup.

3. Troubleshoot Connection Issues

Frequent disconnections or inconsistent speeds could point to hardware or ISP issues. By running a WiFi speed test, you can narrow down the root cause of the problem.

4. Monitor Your ISP Performance

Your ISP may promise high-speed internet, but it’s crucial to check if you’re getting what you pay for. Regular speed tests allow you to monitor their performance and hold them accountable.

5. Determine Bandwidth Needs

If multiple devices are connected to your network, it can strain your bandwidth. Running a speed test helps determine if your current plan can handle your household’s needs or if you should consider upgrading.

How to Run a WiFi Speed Test

Running a WiFi speed test is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to get accurate results:

1. Choose a reliable tool

Popular speed test platforms like Speedtest by Ookla, Fast.com, or Google’s built-in speed test offer accurate and easy-to-use options.

2. Connect to your WiFi network 

Ensure that your device is connected to the WiFi network you want to test. For the best results, disconnect other devices temporarily to avoid interference.

3. Run the test

Open the speed test tool and start the test. It will measure your download speed, upload speed, and ping in a matter of seconds.

4. Record the results

 Note down the results for future reference, especially if you plan to compare them after making changes to your network.

So How Much Speed Is Right for You?

The right speed depends on your daily needs. Look at the guide below to help you make informed decisions about your internet setup.

Download Speed

• For basic tasks like browsing and emailing, 1-5 Mbps is sufficient.
• For HD streaming or online gaming, 10-25 Mbps is ideal.
• For households with multiple devices, 50 Mbps or more is recommended.

Upload Speed

• For video calls or uploading files, 3-10 Mbps is adequate.

• For streaming or heavy uploads, 15 Mbps or higher is better.

Ping or Latency

• For general use: Below 50 ms is fine.
• For gaming or video calls: Below 20 ms ensures smooth performance.

If your results fall short of these benchmarks, it may be time to take action.

What to Do If Your WiFi Speed Is Slow

If your speed test reveals slow performance, here are some practical steps to improve it:

1. Reposition Your Router

Place your router in a central location, away from walls and electronic devices that may interfere with the signal.

2. Upgrade Your Hardware

Outdated routers or modems can bottleneck your speeds. Consider upgrading to a modern device with support for higher speeds and the latest WiFi standards.

3. Reduce Network Congestion

Limit the number of connected devices, especially during peak usage hours. You can also prioritize bandwidth for critical activities using Quality of Service (QoS) settings.

4. Switch to a Different WiFi Band

If your router supports dual bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), switch to the 5 GHz band for faster speeds and less interference.

5. Update Firmware

Ensure your router’s firmware is up-to-date to benefit from performance improvements and security patches.

6. Consider a WiFi Extender or Mesh System  

If certain areas of your home have weak signals, a WiFi extender or mesh system can improve coverage.

7. Contact Your ISP

If all else fails, reach out to your ISP to troubleshoot the issue. They may offer solutions such as upgrading your plan or fixing technical problems.

When to Run a WiFi Speed Test

To get the most accurate picture of your connection’s performance, run speed tests in the following scenarios:

• After setting up a new router or changing your internet plan.
• When experiencing slow or inconsistent internet speeds.
• At different times of the day to identify peak usage hours.
• Before and after making changes to your network, such as repositioning the router or upgrading equipment.

The Role of WiFi Devices in Speed Performance

The quality of your WiFi devices plays a significant role in your connection's speed and stability. Modern routers, mesh systems, and WiFi extenders are designed to handle high-speed connections and multiple devices efficiently. Investing in the right hardware ensures you make the most of your internet plan.

Take Your WiFi Experience to the Next Level

Running a WiFi speed test will make sure your internet connection performs as expected. It helps you identify issues, optimize your network setup, and hold your ISP accountable. Regular testing, combined with proactive measures like upgrading hardware or adjusting your network settings, can significantly enhance your internet experience.

If you're looking for reliable and high-performing WiFi devices, consider Mercusys. From cutting-edge routers to efficient WiFi extenders, Mercusys offers a range of solutions to improve your network’s speed and coverage.

Here are some of Mercusys’ best routers and WiFi devices:

MW305R 300Mbps Wireless N Router: The MW305R provides fast, stable Wi-Fi for your connected devices. Wireless speeds of up to 300 Mbps make it ideal for HD streaming, online gaming, and rapid file downloads.

MR70X AX1800 Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router: Enjoy unrivaled levels of speed with next-gen WiFi 6. MR70X delivers total speeds of up to 1800 Mbps—1201 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz.

MW300RE 300Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender: The MW300RE eliminates WiFi dead zones by wirelessly connecting to your router, strengthening and expanding its signal into areas it can’t on its own.