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Armstrong Speed Test Tips

Things you should consider before running your speed test:

  • Internet speed changes throughout the day. Test your speed mulitple times for clear results.
  • Run the speed test in the same room and in clear sight of your router for the most accurate result.
  • Complete downloads on all connected devices prior to running the test.
Results

Slow

Your Internet should support the following:

  • Light internet browsing
  • You may experience interrupted video streaming
  • Ideal for fewer than 3 devices
Results

Average

Your Internet should support the following:

  • Moderate internet browsing
  • HD video streaming
  • Music and photo download
Results

Fast

Your Internet should support the following:

  • Multiplayer gaming
  • 4K video streaming
  • Uninterrupted video calling
Results

Extremely Fast

Your Internet should support the following:

  • Multiplayer gaming
  • 4K video streaming on multiple devices
  • Fast file download and upload
  • Heavy Internet usage
  • Uninterrupted video calling

Why you should check your Internet speed

Internet speeds are a big deal in today's fast-paced digital world. Slow internet can be an interruption your life by impacting your ability to work, play and socialize. Thankfully, tools like Armstrong's Speed Test can help you determine your Internet speed, giving you the information you need to fix the issue.

Why is Internet speed important?

Over 87 percent of people in the United States regularly use the Internet. Whether you're checking social media, reading news or working, the Internet is a regular part of most of our lives. In fact, the latest Pew survey data suggests over 70 percent of people work from home "most of the time." Unfortunately, the latest government census data also shows a mere 53 percent of households have "high connectivity" broadband. For many people, Internet speeds can inhibit work and limit leisure activities like streaming and gaming. If your Internet speed is too slow, you may struggle to perform simple online tasks. Most Internet providers list their download and upload speeds in their plan descriptions. But these descriptions aren't always accurate. Testing your Internet speed can help you determine if you have any issues or if you need to switch providers.

Common Internet speed terms

Your Internet speed often referred to as bandwidth is a measure of how fast you can download and upload data. The faster your download and upload rate, the faster your computer responds when browsing, working, studying, watching videos or playing games. There are a few Internet speed terms you should know: Bandwidth: While speed and bandwidth are often used interchangeably, they aren't synonymous. Your bandwidth is the maximum amount of data your network is capable of processing in a given time. Speed: The term Internet speed refers to how much data you transfer per second. Your speed usually differs from your bandwidth.
All of these terms intersect.

When you run a speed test, it will show you the following:

  • Download speed (in Mbps)
  • Upload speed (in Mbps)
  • Ping (in ms)
  • Jitter (in ms)

Typically, speed tests throw out the highest and lowest sets of results. The speeds it shows are likely accurate. However, they only show you a snapshot of your speed at a specific point in time.

Download Speed

Download speed measures how long it takes to pull data from a server to your device. Most activity on the Internet, from browsing web pages to streaming videos, consists of downloading data, so this number is the most important one for most users. Download speeds are measured in megabits per second (Mbps). The higher the number, the faster you will be able to do things online.

Upload speed

Upload speed measures how long it takes to send data from your device to the Internet. This number becomes important for activities like sending files via email, uploading photos to a shared album or doing video calls. Like download speed, upload speed is also measured in megabits per second, though it tends to be much slower than download speeds. The higher the number, the less time you will have to wait when sending data online.

Mbps

Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). One megabit equals 1 million bits of data. The Mbps measurement is the gold standard for accessing Internet speeds.

Ping

Ping times refer to how long it takes your device to receive a reply after sending a request online. Ping is measured in milliseconds, you can think of it as your connection's reaction time: the lower the ping time, the better. Ping times become especially important if you are gaming or doing anything else online that depends on timing and quick keystrokes.

Jitter

Jitter is related to ping times and refers to how much your connection's ping varies over time. The lower the jitter, the less likely you are to have buffering delays or other interruptions when you are streaming or gaming. Like ping times, jitter is measured in milliseconds.

Measuring Internet speed using the Armstrong speed test

Armstrong is one of the larger cable and Internet companies in the Northeastern United States and provides a free Internet speed testing tool. You click the start button below, wait a few minutes, and see your results. You can use the prompt at the top of the page to get started.
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Determining what your download speed means

Up to
25
Mbps

Ideal for 1-2 devices

  • Suitable for 1 person
  • Light Internet browsing
  • Music and photo download
Up to
100
Mbps

Ideal for up to 6 devices

  • Suitable for 1-2 people
  • Moderate Internet browsing
  • Stream HD videos
Up to
300
Mbps

Ideal for up to 9 devices

  • Suitable for 2-3 people
  • Manage large files
  • Stream 4K videos
  • Multiplayer gaming
Up to
940
Mbps

Ideal for 10+ devices

  • Suitable for 4+ people
  • Heavy Internet usage
  • Stream 4K videos
  • Multiplayer gaming

Why is my Internet speed so slow?

Did you notice slow upload or download speeds after the Armstrong test? Internet speeds vary based on multiple factors. Consider trying the following before you test your speed again: Change the location of your router Restart your router and modem Use a wired connection Try a new device or browser Clear your cookies and cache Close all other programs on your device Disconnect any other devices from your network Try a new DNS server Upgrade to a newer modem or router Purchase a WiFi extender If you still notice slow speeds, you can always contact your Internet provider. Your area may be experiencing an outage. You may also have a data cap you've exceeded, resulting in throttling. Alternatively, you can shop around for new providers or change your plan.

Are you looking for the best internet provider in your area?

If you're not satisfied with your Internet speeds, you have options. SmartMove can help you find Internet and cable providers in your area.
Armstrong Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is Armstrong Internet speed?
Armstrong offers several Zoom Internet plans, featuring download speeds ranging from up to 12 Mbps to up to 500 Mbps.
What is the fastest Internet speed Armstrong can provide?
Armstrong’s fastest speeds are available through their Zoom IV plan, which features download speeds up to 500 Mbps, and upload speeds up to 25 Mbps.
Can I get Armstrong Internet in my area?
Armstrong Zoom Internet services are most widely available in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, and West Virginia, among other states. To see if Armstrong is available where you live, enter your address at SmartMove.us.
Does Armstrong have unlimited Internet?
Armstrong’s Zoom Internet plans do have Internet usage limitations, commonly referred to as a “data cap.” You can read more about the Armstrong Internet Usage Allowance here.
Where are Armstrong Zoom Hotspots located?
To provide subscribers with access to their Zoom Internet service on-the-go, Armstrong offers indoor and outdoor hotspots. You can find the one closest to you here on Armstrong’s map of Zoom Hotspot Locations.
What is Armstrong Zoom whole home coverage?
Armstrong’s Zoom with enhanced WiFi capabilities aims to ensure reliable connectivity throughout your home, even in areas that typically experience connectivity issues, like basement rooms. Their Plume® system is designed to learn more about your Internet demands through advanced self-optimizations that provide the required bandwidth to the “devices that need it most.” The enhancements extend to include real-time threat protection and easy-to-implement parental controls.

Learn About Armstrong Internet

Armstrong Internet provides a variety of features that you can tailor to your needs. Learn more about your options on the Armstrong page.

Whole-Home Coverage

Get a strong, uninterrupted connection for every device and corner of your home.

Strong Security

Keep every WiFi-enabled device secure with real-time online threat protection, adblocking, and Trend Micro Security.

Manage Your WiFi

See which devices access your WiFi network and and set parental controls to make the internet safer for your young ones.

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Want more information? Check out the other tips and resources on our blog.