Let's find out how fast your internet really is — and what you can do if it's slower than it should be.
Click the button below to run a speed test. It takes about 30 seconds and will tell you your download speed, upload speed, and ping.
Run Speed TestOpens fast.com (powered by Netflix) in a new tab
This is the big number. It tells you how fast you can pull things from the internet — like loading web pages, streaming Netflix, or downloading files. Higher is better.
This is how fast you can send things to the internet — like posting photos, video calling on Zoom, or sending email attachments. It's usually slower than download speed.
This measures the delay between your computer and the internet. Lower is better. High ping causes video calls to lag and feels "sluggish."
Here's a rough guide to what different speeds can handle:
Under 5 Mbps
Very slow — web pages load slowly, video buffers constantly
5-25 Mbps
Basic browsing and standard video streaming works
25-100 Mbps
Good for most households — HD streaming, video calls, multiple devices
100+ Mbps
Excellent — 4K streaming, large downloads, many devices at once
Keep in mind: The speed your internet provider promises is the maximum — you often won't get the full speed, especially on WiFi or when multiple people are using the internet.
Routers work best in central locations, up off the floor. If it's hidden in a closet, behind the TV, or in the basement, your signal suffers. Walls, mirrors, and appliances can also block the signal.
If your router is more than 4-5 years old, it might not support newer, faster WiFi standards. Older routers also struggle with multiple devices.
Every phone, tablet, TV, and smart device shares your bandwidth. If the kids are streaming while you're on a video call, everyone slows down.
In apartments or close neighborhoods, your neighbors' WiFi networks can interfere with yours. This is especially common on crowded WiFi channels.
WiFi signal gets weaker with distance. If you have a large home, you might need a WiFi extender or mesh system to cover the whole house.
Sometimes the issue isn't in your home — your internet provider might have congestion in your area, especially during peak evening hours.
If your speed test shows significantly less than what you're paying for, it could be:
Pro tip: Run speed tests at different times of day. If it's fast in the morning but slow at night, that points to congestion in your area.
I can come to your home, test your network properly, and figure out exactly what's causing the problem. Whether it's router placement, equipment issues, or something else entirely — I'll get your WiFi working right.
Call or Text: 854-204-7526$100 flat rate for in-home WiFi troubleshooting
Serving Florence, Darlington, Hartsville & the Pee Dee region of South Carolina