People are always wondering if they are truly getting the fast Internet speeds and connection rates that they are promised when they sign up for a new account. Companies promise speedy upload and download bandwidth speeds, but how are customers really supposed to know the actual speed they are receiving? Well, that problem has been solved thanks to free speed tests that can be performed over the Internet.

Speed tests test a user’s broadband connection against thousands of other broadband users in a geographical position in the world. After the test, users are presented with the download (the speed of data from the server to your computer) and upload (the speed of sending data from your computer to the server) bandwidth speeds. The tests are performed within your web browser and are completely free of charge.

Speed tests may also be performed on mobile devices that have Internet access so users may be aware of the mobile broadband speed they are receiving. Mobile tests are performed exactly the same way as a PC or Laptop computer.

In addition to offering download and upload speeds, speed tests will also provide users with detailed statistics and information about various Internet Service Provider (ISP) speeds. For example, if you are considering moving to a new country and want to find the fastest ISP, speed tests will provide such information in comparison to your current Internet speed.

ISP’s consider performing regular speed tests to ensure you are receiving the maximum speed guaranteed at the time of sign up of a new Internet account.