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Q: Should I use a bandwidth calculator or a speed test?

Both! A bandwidth calculator can tell you how much data you are able to upload or download to your computer. A speed test can help you determine how fast that data is being downloaded and uploaded.

Our quick quiz recommends ISPs and speeds based on what’s important to you

How we calculate the internet speed that you need

Activities – Certain internet activities require more speed than others. For example, heavy gaming requires more speed than simply browsing
Number of devices – The more devices you have connected, the more speed you need to support each device’s internet activity
Address – We ask for your address to select the best deals for your home and connect you to internet providers in your area

What internet speed do I need?

The internet speed you need depends on your daily internet activities and the number of devices connected to your network.

According to Ookla, the average download speed in the U.S. is 300 Mbps; however, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommends that an internet speed plan of around 100 Mbps is sufficient for families with multiple users or for regular streaming.

Internet speed	Number of users	Type of activity
5 – 20 Mbps	1 – 2 users	Emails, regular website browsing, music streaming, SD video streaming
20 – 40 Mbps	1 – 3 users	Working from home using light apps, streaming music, online gaming, 4K video streaming, HD video streaming
40 – 100 Mbps	2 – 4 users	Multigaming, 4K video streaming, using home security, using smart appliances, downloading large files
100 – 500 Mbps	2 – 5 users	Running a home office, using creative apps or software, 4K video streaming, UHD streaming on multiple screens, fast file download of large files
500 – 1,000 Mbps	5+ users	Running a home office, using creative apps or software, 4K video streaming, using home security, using smart home devices, multiuser/multi-device functions

What is a good internet speed?

A “good” internet speed depends on your internet activities and the number of connected devices in your home.

The FCC’s minimum broadband speed standard is 100 Mbps of download speed and 20 Mbps of upload speed, enough to support a small household. The right internet speed for you will depend on your internet activities and the number of connected devices in your home. It’s safe to assume that you’ll need more than 100 Mbps if you’re a heavy internet user.

Enter your ZIP code to view internet plans available near you

How to boost your internet speed

If you’re experiencing a slow internet connection, there are a few things you can try:

Upgrading your equipment
Reset your equipment
Add a Wi-Fi extender to your network to extend your Wi-Fi coverage area
Upgrade your security and optimize your router settings
Upgrade your internet plan

Learn more about how to boost your Wi-Fi signal.

Internet speed FAQs

How much internet speed do I need?

We recommend at least 100 Mbps (per the FCC), but more if you have a larger household or participate in heavy internet activities.

What are ‘Mbps’?

Mbps stands for megabits per second and is the way we measure internet speed. The higher the number before the “Mbps,” the faster your internet speed is.

Should I use a bandwidth calculator or a speed test?

Both! A bandwidth calculator can tell you how much data you are able to upload or download to your computer. A speed test can help you determine how fast that data is being downloaded and uploaded.

What type of internet is best for me?

The best type of internet is usually a fiber connection, providing lightning-fast, symmetrical upload and download speeds. Fiber availability is more limited than other technology types, however. Cable internet is your next best option, with wider availability and sufficient speeds. If you live in a more rural region, check out fixed wireless or satellite providers in your area.