Running a speed test is easy — but getting accurate internet speed results is a different story. Between WiFi vs Ethernet, browser limitations, and your device's hardware, several hidden factors can affect what you see.
In this guide, you'll learn how to get the most accurate speed test results and why KUB Fiber's ultra-fast connection delivers the performance your home needs.
Wired vs Wireless Speed Test Results
That old-school cord-and-plug is simply more reliable than WiFi (wireless) connectivity. Even 1 gig super-fast connections, now widely available across the country, can struggle to test out at higher than 500 to 700 Mbps when tested over WiFi. For the most accurate speed test result, you must test with a hard-wired device.
Why? Because there are nearly endless variables that can negatively affect a WiFi signal. Everything from nearby construction, the wireless printer in your office, a baby monitor, and even your microwave in use in the home.
Common Reasons for Slow Internet Speeds
Slow internet speeds are sometimes caused by malware such as adware and viruses. There are several free and inexpensive programs and apps to deal with these threats, and they’re important to use for many reasons.
This also sounds obvious, but it’s very easy to overlook any ongoing downloads or programs like video chat that may be turned on while you’re conducting a speed test on your device. Close these applications, reboot your device, and test again.
Even the browser you use — Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Microsoft’s new Edge, etc. — can affect your test speed. Try different browsers to see if that’s the case on your system.
If you have a WiFi extender, make sure you turn it off before you run a speed test, or your computer may test the wrong connection.
This brings us to a final point about equipment. Technology advances constantly, and many older routers and computers simply cannot take full advantage of the blazing speed and bandwidth of today’s fiber broadband connectivity.
What Speed Test Results Really Mean
| Metric | What it Measures | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
|
Download Speed |
How quickly data travels from the internet to your device |
Streaming, browsing, downloading |
| Upload Speed | How quickly data travels from your device to the internet | Video calls, uploading files, sharing content |
| Latency (Ping) | How long it takes data to travel between your device and a server |
Online gaming, video calls, responsiveness |
How to Test Your Internet Speed Accurately:
✅ Connect your computer directly to your router using an ethernet cable, if possible.
✅ Close applications and pause downloads or uploads.
✅ Open a trusted internet speed testing tool.
✅ Run the test and review your download, upload, and latency results.
✅ Repeat the test to check for consistency.
Whether you're streaming, gaming, or working from home, KUB Fiber delivers the speed you need to do it all.
Ready for a better internet experience? Get connected with KUB Fiber or call 865-524-2911.