Broadband Speeds

BDawg

Lifer
Oct 31, 2000
11,631
2
0
I recently had my DSL line changed from a 768/768 SDSL line to a 3k/512 ADSL line.

When I go somewhere like broadband reports or CNET and run one of their tests, I see some wierd numbers. I usually see numbers like 76/150.

When I actually try to download files (in this case, from tucows), I get around 250KBps (2000Mbps) and when I d/l a test file from my phone company I get 325-350KBps (2600-2800Mpbs).

Why in the world do I get such odd numbers from the speed testers? Is there java overhead causing a problem?
 

insename2

Senior member
Dec 15, 2005
420
0
0
www.testmy.net

^this test actually lets u download a file that is appropriate for your bandwidth so you would not expirence faulty results and bursts factored in
 

BDawg

Lifer
Oct 31, 2000
11,631
2
0
I got 2M there. It seems so odd since broadband reports has been so reliable in the past.
 

insename2

Senior member
Dec 15, 2005
420
0
0
well, imo, test my is the only reliable broadband speed test that i can find since it doesnt utilize applets/small siles for the test, you'll notice that the test jumped around if you chose smartest, thats because if your connection loaded it under a certain time period, it will choose a larger test so that speed bursts are not factored into the score

now did u say u updated to a 3mb connection? try this, if still not @3mbps then u might be under because of your computer and its settings, check their forums for tips on how to improve that (i just use ccleaner and TuneUp utilities 2004 to get my max speed of 6230kbps)

btw: 250KBps ? 2000Mbps
 

JackMDS

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 25, 1999
29,544
421
126
When you test your speed through the Internet the results do not dependent not only on your connection but on the servers on the other side as well.

In general you should consider a factor of x10. I.e. if you connection is suppose to be 3Mb/sec., a Good download should be about 300KB/sec.

Since the test download from your ISP (which is probably taken directly from their server) is 325-350KBps you are in a very good shape, your service is actually a little more then 3Mb/sec.

The rest is live in the fast lane do not lose sleep on it.

If you did not optimized, you TCP/IP for DSL you might be able to get a more even download by following the instructions on this page, http://www.ezlan.net/Internet_Speed.html

:sun:
 

insename2

Senior member
Dec 15, 2005
420
0
0
8bits = 1 byte, 3 megabit = .375 megabyte and the mulitplier you spoke of is actually 8 not 10... thus he is not exceeding his bandwith of 3 megabits per second but rather 200 kilobits below the advertised speed
 

insename2

Senior member
Dec 15, 2005
420
0
0
okay... i think that method was meant to be used with slightly slower connections tho... if i used it wood it not mean that i have a 7.78Mbps connection or that my max dowloading speed is 600KBps?