Imagine you have subscribed to an internet connection like the Spectrum internet and so have your friends.
Now you start to use your internet by browsing on various websites and begin doing your work and both of you have varying internet speeds.
At this point, you begin to wonder about your internet and think if you have a good internet speed?
The main question which arises here is not about the internet service but rather what is considered good internet speed and the difference of a few Mbps is not enough to label it as good or bad internet speed.
So, let’s get into the details of internet speed and understand how to label them as ‘good’ or ‘bad.’
What is considered good internet speed?
In normal cases, the typical internet download speed is between 12 and 25 megabits per second.
However, there are other options: the services ate divided into ‘basic’ and ‘advanced’ services. The “basic” service will have download speeds ranging from 3 to 8 Mbps, while there are “advanced” services as well which have downloading speeds which exceed 25 Mbps. Now, this is something that can be labeled as fast internet.
Keep in mind that internet providers in your area can have various uploading and downloading speeds. As the downloading speeds are usually faster, that’s what is most commonly advertised to the potential customers.
While looking for internet packages for your home or work, it is vital that you look at both download and upload speeds.
The minimum upload speed considered for fast internet is rated at 3 Mbps or above. Similarly, the upload rates typically range from 1 to 15 megabits per second.
Factors affecting Internet Speed
If in case you feel like the speed of the internet is slower because the webpages are taking a long time to open, then it is time to check the factors which might be affecting your internet speed.
· Virus
One of the most common and top factors when facing problems with the internet can be viruses.
When a virus or malware infects your computer, it may run directly, right after connecting to the internet without your permission destroying the system. The best course of action is to install an antivirus program and only download add-ons and extensions from legitimate sources, such as Opera or Chrome.
· Hardware
When you subscribe to an internet connection you are provided with the hardware. Hardware is the network device you receive such as the router or cable, which has a significant impact on your internet speed.
For instance, if you want a faster and reliable connection then you should opt for an Ethernet connection rather than Wi-Fi. It is because by being connected to the internet through WiFi you will experience a slow internet speed as additional devices join the same network.
Moreover, the hardware of your computer can also slow down your online work – for example, if you have a slow CPU.
· Number of Users
A third vital factor that affects the speed of the internet is heavily dependent on the number of users connected to the same internet connection.
When a huge number of individuals try connecting to the internet at once, internet speed slows down. These frequently occur during high activity hours, which can be during work hours or at home where a lot of people are present and they attempt to connect to the internet. Slow internet speeds are also a common problem on a congested public Wi-Fi network where numerous people might be utilizing the same network, for instance, a restaurant.
· Distance between WiFi Users and Routers
Your internet speed will also suffer if there is more distance between your Wi-Fi router and your device. The farther away from the device is the router, the weaker connection will be experienced.
A possible solution is if you obtain a wireless repeater for this problem. These are small signal copiers that can be positioned between the router and the device to increase the Wi-Fi signal’s strength by a factor of two. Physical barriers, such as water and metal, that are placed between the router and the devices can also slow down the internet speed. So, if you have any metal boards or aquariums, move them out of the way.
· The program that you use
Your internet speed will be affected in case you start running too many programs while connected to the internet at the same time. Some of them may be running in the background without you being aware of it. Make sure to check the auto-update, synchronize, and backup settings in any file-sharing apps you use.
Also, make sure your browser only has the necessary add-ons and toolbars. This way you would know all the applications which would be consuming how much and which much internet bandwidth.
Conclusion
Regardless of what we say, considering internet speed good or bad also depends on the users and their needs.
Various electronic gadgets, like mobile phones, laptops, and even applications, may greatly benefit from high-speed Internet. Therefore, whatever your activities are, it is suggested to look for an Internet plan that can match your specific bandwidth requirements.
You probably want fast broadband speed even during prime Internet usage hours. When choosing an Internet service plan, consider all of these considerations as well as your individual bandwidth requirements.
Now you have more idea about the internet plans, speed and the various factors that are involved. Therefore, it is now easier for you to understand how to choose different internet bundles according to your usage.
