Speedtest Websites

[mikey4444]

I have tried 6 different speedtest websites, and they all give different results. Can anyone suggest why this should be so and is there a really dependent site that I can use ?

[hc4361]

This has a good reputation

http://www.speedtest.net/

[mikey4444]

Thanks hc...I have used this but I can't understand why the tests should vary so much.

[hc4361]

Different servers? I really don't know

[bibblebub]

The connection between your computer and the server on which a website (such as a speedtest site) is located is via a network of networks, with the chain of links from one end to the other being determined dynamically. Just as a metal chain is as strong as its weakest link, that connection is as slow as the slowest network in that internet chain.

[mikey4444]

Thanks bibs !

[HansUrbancka]

I find the one given by hc4361 to be very good. However, perhaps the most accurate is BT. It normally gives the speed coming down the line from the telephone exchange and also what is actually arriving at one's computer.

Although my ISP is BT, I think anyone can use the BT Test. :-

http://bt.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/9354/c/346

Hans.

[chrisosh]

Most or all of those website want to sell you something, try an on board Speed tester like this: http://addgadgets.com/network_meter/

[hc4361]

You need a BT phone number to use the BT speed checker. I don't have a landline.

[mikey4444]

Thanks everybody, especially hans. I have used the BT speedtest link and I had a dreadful result. But I followed the advice to reset my router and, hey presto, I am now getting 26 mega pixies !

[heathfield]

For the BT test, your landline has to be with BT. My landline is with AOL. BT test says it doesn't recognise my home number.

[HansUrbancka]

@heathfield....I find it all confusing when it comes to ISPs and who in reality is actually providing individual services. You are paying AOL for your landline connection but all telephone exchanges are owned by BT along with the landlines along which broadband travels. It appears that BT has some sort of leasing arrangement with ISPs. It's no wonder that BT doesn't want to know about line problems when other firms are involved. Your telephone number is 'dialled-up' through a BT Exchange so one would have thought that BT would have recognised it.

Hans.