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Try our 'NEW' FREE Broadband speed tester!

Our broadband speed test checks the upload and download speed of your internet connection i.e. how quickly you are able to send and receive information whilst online. Many broadband packages are sold with download speeds of 'up to' a certain limit. Several factors can impact how close to this limit you get. The length of your phone line, network congestion, wireless networks and shared users can all have a negative impact on the download speeds that you achieve. A high download speed is desirable because it will make surfing the net and downloading files quicker. A high upload speed means that you can work faster when e.g. adding photos and videos to social networking sites. What are you waiting for? Test it now!

How does the broadband speed test work?

The broadband speed tester sends a temporary file to your computer and times how long your connection takes to download it and then upload it. This test typically takes approximately 30 seconds.

How to make the broadband speed test as accurate as possible

Any programs that are open on your computer will slow down your speed test making your results less accurate. Please temorarily disable programs which run in the background i.e. those that check emails, chat software, iTunes, Internet radio and any other windows. Please also ensure that your computer is not downloading any updates and that nobody else in your household is online/using your wireless network at the time of the test.

Why do you need to know my information

We need to know the current speed that you are paying for as the temporary file that we use for the speed test varies in size according to the connection speed. We ask that you provide the name of your ISP in order that those companies who are consistently not delivering on their promises can be 'named and shamed'.

How can I improve my broadband speed

The easiest way to speed up your broadband is to make sure that any unnecessary programs and windows are not open in the background whilst you're using the internet. If you are a non-cable customer, installing a 'BT Broadband Accelerator' (formerly known as BT iPlate) on your home phone socket will typically increase your broadband speed by an average of 1.5Mb. If you are a BT customer, you cn get a Broadband Accelerator free, you just need to pay £1.30 for postage.

If your results are significantly below what you expect based on the package that you are currently paying for, you may want to consider switching broadband provider. Our availability checker will help you to find out which other ISP's are operating in your postcode area and what packages they offer.
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