Actual Internet speed can vary greatly from what your carrier specifies; just because you ordered 6 megabits per second does not mean you are getting that speed. Factors affecting speed include the number of computers connected to the main Internet line in your home or office, the number of people using the Internet line and the type of Ethernet port or adapter you are using. Checking the actual speed of your Internet connection can be done on many different websites.
SpeedTest
Step 1
Open a Web browser and go to the Speedtest.net.
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Step 2
Click on the large green button that says "Begin Test." The website will begin to check your Internet speed; this test should take about a minute.
Step 3
View your upload and download speeds in the box that reads "SPEEDTEST.NET."
Speakeasy
Step 1
Click on the first link in Resources to access the Speakeasy website.
Step 2
Click on the city closest to you on the website to begin the speed test.
Step 3
Wait for the results to appear in the window.
Bandwidthplace
Step 1
Click on the second link in Resources to access the website.
Step 2
Click on the large button on the website that reads "Start Test."
Step 3
Wait for the speeds to appear in the window after you clicked on "Start Test."
Warning
Some websites that measure your Internet connection speed will compare your speed to the average for Internet service providers.