Understanding Internet Speed Tests
Major 4G LTE carriers in USA
In the United States, the major 4G LTE carriers are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Each offers extensive coverage and competitive services. Here's a brief overview:
Verizon: Verizon is renowned for its expansive 4G LTE network, covering over 99% of the U.S. population. This extensive coverage ensures reliable service in both urban and rural areas.
AT&T: AT&T provides a robust 4G LTE network with widespread coverage across the country. It offers various plans, including specialized options for veterans and military personnel, as well as discounts for students.
T-Mobile: T-Mobile offers a comprehensive 4G LTE network with extensive coverage. The company has been recognized for its innovative approach to customer service and network optimization.
When choosing a carrier, consider factors such as coverage in your specific area, plan pricing, customer service, and any additional perks or discounts that may apply to you. All three carriers offer competitive 4G LTE services, so selecting the best one depends on your individual needs and preferences.
BEST internet providers in the world
Google Fiber: Known for offering high-speed internet with speeds ranging from 1,000 to 8,000 Mbps, Google Fiber provides reliable and fast connections at competitive prices.
AT&T Fiber: AT&T offers fiber optic internet services with speeds up to 5,000 Mbps, ensuring fast and reliable connections.
Verizon Fios: Verizon Fios provides fiber optic internet with speeds up to 2,000 Mbps, delivering high-speed connectivity to its customers.
Xfinity: Xfinity offers cable internet services with speeds up to 2,000 Mbps, providing fast and reliable internet connections.
Ziply Fiber: Ziply Fiber offers fiber internet services with speeds ranging from 100 to 10,000 Mbps, catering to various customer needs.
Starlink: For satellite internet, Starlink provides global coverage with speeds ranging from 30 to 220 Mbps, making it a viable option for remote areas.
What is a good internet speed?
A good internet speed is at least 25Mbps download and
3Mbps upload. These internet speeds are the bare minimum for a broadband
connection as defined by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). But
you’ll get better results with an internet plan that supports download speeds
between 40–100Mbps.
That said, no one wants to overpay for internet speed.
You can use our How Much Speed Do You Need? Tool to generate a personalized
internet speed recommendation based on how your household uses the internet.
Find that sweet spot of sufficient download speed without overpaying for speed
you won’t use.
How much internet speed do I need?
You need at least 25Mbps download speeds and 3Mbps upload
speeds to effectively stream, game, download, and Zoom online with minimal
slowdowns and buffering. But if you live with three or more people, you’ll be
better off with 100Mbps download speeds and 10Mbps upload speeds to support
more users and bandwidth-heavy tasks.
What is the fastest type of internet?
Fiber internet is the fastest type of internet
connection. It uses cables made of bundled fiber-optic strands to transmit
large amounts of data with light signals. Most fiber internet plans give you
1,000Mbps speeds, although some providers can get you speeds of up to 2,000Mbps
or even 5,000Mbps. Fiber is also the only type of internet that gives you
symmetrical upload speeds—so your uploads will be just as fast as your
downloads.
Why is my internet so slow?
Your internet can be slow for many reasons. Your
internet plan may be too slow for your needs, your modem or router may be out
of date, your router may be on the fritz, or you might have too many people
using your Wi-Fi at the same time. We can help you identify where the problem
is and how to fix it.
How can I improve my internet speed?
You can improve your internet speed by upgrading to a
faster plan, updating your equipment, or taking simpler measures like closing
out apps and browser windows. We can walk you through 10 steps to improve your
internet speed in just 15 minutes.
Do I need a faster router?
You need a faster router if your current router is
using outdated Wi-Fi standards. Anything older than Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi
6 (802.11ax) doesn’t get you appropriate speeds equal to what’s capable on most
high-speed internet connections.
Even a router that’s just a few years old might not
meet appropriate speed standards, depending on your connection. Look into your
router’s spects to see its Wi-Fi standards and max speeds and get a new router
if it’s an older model. We have more information on when and how to replace an
outdated router.
How do I get faster internet?
You can get faster internet by upgrading your internet
plan. If you can’t upgrade your current speeds and feel stuck with bad service,
you can also switch to a new provider.
