For the most precise internet speed test results, it's important to connect your laptop or computer directly to your modem or router using an Ethernet cable. This wired connection minimises variability, which can occur when using Wi-Fi, ensuring a more accurate speed measurement.

Steps to Ensure an Accurate Speed Test:

  1. Disconnect Other Devices: Before running a speed test, make sure no other devices on your network are actively using data (e.g., downloading or streaming), as this can impact your results.
  2. Disable VPNs: If you have a VPN running, temporarily disable it. VPNs create an indirect route to your internet connection, which can reduce your speed and affect the accuracy of the test.
  3. Choosing the Right Server: When using a speed test tool, selecting a server close to your location provides the most accurate results. For reliable testing, we recommend using the Speedtest.net app by Ookla rather than the web browser version. The app typically offers more consistent performance and reduces potential interference from browser-related issues.

Check Your Device's Ethernet Speed

Verifying your device's Ethernet speed ensures that your connection is running at its optimal performance. If your device isn’t negotiating the maximum available speed, it may result in slower internet than expected, even if your internet service is working properly. This can help you diagnose issues like poor cabling, hardware limitations, or incorrect settings on your network equipment.

To verify the Ethernet speed negotiated by your device, follow the steps below based on your operating system.

Windows

  1. Open the Start Menu and search for Control Panel.
  2. Click on Network and Internet.
  3. Select Network and Sharing Center.
  4. Click on Change adapter settings on the left-hand menu.
  5. Right-click on your Ethernet connection and select Status.
  6. In the Status window, next to Speed, you'll see the negotiated speed for your Ethernet interface.

macOS (Apple)

  1. Open the Network Utility application (found in Applications > Utilities > Network Utility or by searching for it using Spotlight).
  2. In the Info tab, under Network Interface, select your Ethernet connection from the drop-down menu.
  3. The Ethernet speed will appear in the interface information, along with other details like your IP address.

iPerf Test for Advanced Network Diagnostics

If you're using a Capti-supplied modem, we can run a more advanced diagnostic called an iPerf test. This test measures the maximum achievable bandwidth between two points in your network, helping to identify performance issues such as packet loss, jitter, and network throughput.

iPerf is a more thorough test than typical speed tests because it runs directly between the modem and our network, bypassing many of the variables that can affect results. This allows us to pinpoint if the issue is within your local network or with the wider internet connection. If needed, contact our support team, and we’ll guide you through running an iPerf test.

If you need further assistance with speed testing, checking your Ethernet speed, or would like to run an iPerf test on a Capti-supplied modem, feel free to contact our support team for help.