Armstrong Speed Test Tips

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.

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.

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. Download speed: Your download speed is a measure of how fast data is downloaded from the Internet to your computer. Upload speed: Your upload speed is a measure of how fast data is uploaded from your computer to the Internet. 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: Your ping (also called latency) refers to how fast your Internet-connected device receives a response from a server. Ping is always measured in milliseconds (ms). Jitter: Internet connection speeds and ping aren't perfectly stable. They change by the millisecond. Jitter refers to variations in ping. The higher the number, the more choppy your connection will feel, especially when playing online games or streaming in 4K. 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.

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.

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.

If you're not satisfied with your Internet speeds, you have options. SmartMove can help you find Internet and cable providers in your area.