SPEED TEST

High-speed internet access matters. The standard 25 Mbps speed used by the FEC to determine “good” internet speed is a relic of the past. Ohio businesses, larger households of 3-5 people or households from 1-3 with multiple devices really need speeds closer to the 100–200 Mbps range. 

For most Ohio families and businesses, the 25 Mbps standard is out of date and does not take into consideration the multiple devices now used by American households including computers, streaming televisions, smart home features and tablets. Not to mention, more Americans than ever are working from home and strong, reliable internet connection is a requirement. 

On most speed tests you’ll likely see the words Download and Upload, but what do they mean?

  • Download: The time it takes to pull data, measured in megabits per second (Mbps).
  • Upload: The time it takes to send data, measured in megabits per second (Mbps).

How fast should your internet be working? BroadbandNow provides the minimum download speeds required for each internet user:

  • 1-5 Mbps for checking email and browsing the web
  • 15-25 Mbps for streaming HD video
  • 40-100 Mbps for streaming 4K video
  • 200+ Mbps for streaming 4K video, and downloading large files

If you’re a business or organization, you’ll need even more Mbps to handle all of the devices needed to efficiently run your company. The 500-1,000 Mbps should be the standard for any business with multiple employees. 

Let’s take a look at some internet speeds and what you can do with them:

0-5 Mbps

Works for:

  • Checking email
  • Streaming music on one device
  • Searching on Google

5-40 Mbps

Works for:

  • Streaming video on one device
  • Video calling with Skype or FaceTime
  • Online gaming for one player

40-100 Mbps

Works for:

  • Streaming HD video on a few devices
  • Multiplayer online gaming
  • Downloading large files

100-500 Mbps

Works for:

  • Streaming video in UHD on multiple screens
  • Downloading files quickly
  • Gaming online for multiple players

500-1000+ Mbps

Works for:

Doing a lot of almost anything on numerous devices simultaneously

Check your own internet speed with BroadbandNow’s test! If you want to share the story of your internet speed, email info@broadbandaccessohio.com

Broadband Access Ohio believes our state must plan for the future and support access to quality, high speed internet access. Join us in our mission!