Speed Test for NBN

Speed Test for NBN: How to Get Accurate Results

Speed Test for NBN: How to Get Accurate Results

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NBN speed measurements let you verify the service quality you’re paying for. A good NBN speed test shows significant details about your connection’s performance. You’ll see download speeds, upload capacity, and network reliability. These measurements give you the information you need to fix connection problems and ensure the best possible service.

This complete guide shows you the right ways to test your Speed Test For NBN speeds. You’ll learn everything from simple preparation to understanding your results. The guide explains how different factors affect your WiFi speed test results. It highlights why ethernet cables work better than wireless connections and shows you ways to improve your NBN connection’s performance. You’ll also discover popular testing tools like the Telstra speed test and other reliable platforms.

Preparing for Your NBN Speed Test

You need proper preparation to get accurate NBN speed test results. The most reliable testing environment comes from a direct ethernet cable connection to your NBN device [1].

These steps will help you get accurate measurements:

  1. Close all background apps and pause downloads
  2. Disconnect other devices from the network
  3. Check for running system updates
  4. Check your NBN plan details with your provider
  5. Make sure your testing equipment works correctly

The time you run your speed test will substantially affect your results. Tests run during early morning or late night hours usually show the best performance because network congestion is low [2]. Speed typically slows down during peak hours between 6 PM to 10 PM on weekdays [3].

Check your provider’s outage maps to make sure no telecommunications infrastructure work happens in your area. You’ll get a full picture if you run multiple tests at different times and compare the results [4].

Your laptop should be plugged into power during testing. Power-saving modes in network adapters might affect your results otherwise. You should also check your cables for damage or loose connections to avoid physical connection problems that could affect test accuracy [4].

Running the NBN Speed Test

Popular online tools like Speedtest.net by Ookla, Fast.com by Netflix, and Google’s speed test help you check NBN speeds [5]. These tools measure three significant aspects of your connection: download speed, upload speed, and ping rate.

Here’s how to get accurate NBN speed test results:

  1. Choose a trusted testing platform (Speedtest.net or Fast.com)
  2. Connect directly to the server over port 8080 [6]
  3. Let multiple connections establish to get accurate measurements
  4. Complete the full test duration
  5. Save your results to track performance

The client calculates live transfer speeds and adjusts chunk sizes to maximize network usage during testing [6]. The system runs multiple test rounds and starts with download tests before measuring upload speeds. The testing platform creates extra connections when needed in the first half of both download and upload tests to ensure accuracy [6].

Today’s speed tests use TCP testing with HTTP fallback to maintain compatibility [6]. You’ll get detailed information about your connection’s performance, with throughput measurements taken up to 30 times every second [6]. Network conditions change between peak and off-peak hours, so run multiple tests throughout the day to get a full picture of your connection [7].

Factors Affecting NBN Speed Test Results

Multiple external and internal factors substantially affect NBN speed test results. Users need to understand these influences to interpret their test results accurately.

Your physical setup is vital to speed test accuracy. The distance between devices and routers can reduce throughput by one-third when doubled [8]. Wireless signals get blocked by physical obstacles such as concrete walls, metal objects, and even water [8].

These technical factors shape speed test outcomes:

  • Network Congestion: Speeds slow down during peak usage times, especially between 6 PM and 10 PM, due to shared network capacity [9]
  • Device Limitations: Each device has different WiFi and cellular radio capabilities that lead to varying results on the same connection [10]
  • Background Processes: System updates, cloud backups, and active applications can use up much bandwidth during testing [11]
  • Router Configuration: Connection speeds can drop due to outdated router firmware or incorrect Quality of Service (QoS) settings [9]

NBN technology’s type and limitations at your premises affect speed test results [12]. On top of that, your home network equipment’s performance can become a bottleneck, especially when you have outdated hardware [11].

Wireless connections face signal disruption from nearby networks’ channel interference, particularly in crowded areas like apartment complexes [11]. Testing at different times gives you a complete picture of your connection’s performance since network conditions vary between peak and off-peak hours [10].

Interpreting and Optimizing Your NBN Speed

NBN providers show different speed test results in their typical evening performance metrics. The latest ACCC reports reveal Exetel leads with 102.5% of maximum plan speed, while Telstra comes in at 102.3% and Optus delivers 101.6% [13].

Your NBN connection works best when you pay attention to your hardware setup and surroundings. Key optimization steps include:

  • Getting a modern modem with 5GHz capability and multiple antennas
  • Placing your modem centrally at a higher spot
  • Keeping it away from solid walls and electrical appliances
  • Connecting fixed devices with ethernet cables
  • Keeping track of how many devices are connected

Building materials can make a big difference to your WiFi signal strength. Brick or cement walls substantially reduce your signal, and metal panels or mirrors can bounce and interfere with WiFi signals [14].

Internet speeds often drop by 20% or more during peak hours, usually between 7 PM and 11 PM [13]. Regular speed tests help you track your connection’s performance. You might need to upgrade your plan if speeds consistently fall short during busy evening hours [15].

Conclusion

NBN speed testing is a vital tool that helps users achieve optimal internet performance. Users need direct ethernet connections and minimal network interference to create reliable testing conditions and reveal their true connection capabilities. Speed test results help users learn about their connection quality, identify potential problems, and verify if their service matches their chosen NBN plan.

Users can maintain consistent internet performance by monitoring speeds regularly and taking practical optimization steps throughout their daily usage patterns. People who understand how peak usage affects performance, hardware limitations, and environmental factors can make better decisions about their internet setup and service needs. This knowledge helps them maintain optimal speeds and tackle potential problems before their daily internet activities suffer.

FAQs

What constitutes a satisfactory result from an NBN speed test?
A satisfactory NBN speed test result typically features a ping under 100 milliseconds, with the optimal range being below 50 milliseconds. Most NBN connections in Australia have an average ping of around 11.69 milliseconds, indicating that latency is generally not a concern.

Which speed test tool is known for its accuracy?
Among the speed test tools available in 2024, Cloudflare is noted for its accuracy. Other reliable options include Fast.com for its user-friendliness, OpenSpeedTest™ as the best open-source tool, SpeedSmart which is suitable for any Wi-Fi device, Speedtest by OoklaⓇ for its widespread use, and TestMy.net for its unbiased approach.

What are considered good NBN speeds?
Good NBN speeds are generally considered to be download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 10 Mbps. These speeds are sufficient for handling most online activities effectively.

How can I achieve the most accurate and consistent internet speed test results?
For the most accurate and consistent results, consider using a network gateway running pfSense or similar systems. While popular platforms like fast.com and speedtest.net are commonly used, variations in their results can occur. Developing an app that not only measures but also saves your speed test results could provide more reliable data over time.

References

[1] – https://www.letsbemates.com.au/mate/nbn-speed-test-direct-connection/?srsltid=AfmBOooC4d3lC8RLfPltjbiNPC-HLMR72R6Z8azFMQs2fbxpsUoc2vbT
[2] – https://www.bandwidthplace.com/article/how-does-time-of-day-affect-internet-speed
[3] – https://www.quora.com/At-what-time-do-you-get-the-fastest-Internet-speed
[4] – https://support.pilotfiber.com/troubleshooting-internet/run-speed-test
[5] – https://www.roundtabletechnology.com/blog/how-to-check-your-internet-speed-a-step-by-step-guide
[6] – https://help.speedtest.net/hc/en-us/articles/360038679354-How-does-Speedtest-measure-my-network-speeds
[7] – https://www.grainconnect.com/how-to-test-your-broadband-speed-a-step-by-step-guide/
[8] – https://www.homesc.com/blog/wifi-speed-connection-what-affects-and-influences-wifi
[9] – https://rbe.net.au/what-is-network-congestion-and-how-it-impacts-your-experience/
[10] – https://www.speedtest.net/about/knowledge/faq
[11] – https://race.com/blog/what-is-affecting-your-wi-fi-speeds-and-what-can-you-do-about-it/
[12] – https://www.letsbemates.com.au/mate/faq/what-factors-can-affect-the-speed-of-my-nbnconnection/?srsltid=AfmBOooBlceH9nKQ7MriDprzr-BN8oEVIrAibZ8wMx3PTS87Ig24uqvs
[13] – https://www.canstarblue.com.au/internet/nbn-speed-test/
[14] – https://www.nbnco.com.au/learn/optimization/in-home-optimization
[15] – https://www.testmyspeed.com/insights/internet-speed-test-results-explained