Are you tired of slow internet speeds on your Windows 10 computer? Do you want to know how to check your internet speed to ensure that you’re getting the speeds that you’re paying for? Look no further, because we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will show you simple steps to check your internet speed on your Windows 10 computer.
Checking your internet speed is important for various reasons. Firstly, it helps you to determine whether you’re getting the speeds that you’re paying for from your internet service provider. Secondly, it can help you to identify any issues that might be causing slow internet speeds. And finally, it can help you to troubleshoot and improve your internet speed on your Windows 10 computer.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your internet speeds and ensure that you’re getting the best possible performance on your Windows 10 computer, keep reading this blog post to learn more!
Why is Checking Internet Speed Important?
Internet speed is a crucial factor in today’s fast-paced world, where almost everything is done online. From streaming your favorite shows to video conferencing with your colleagues, a slow internet speed can be frustrating and impact productivity. That’s why it’s essential to check your internet speed regularly with speed test tools to ensure you’re getting the speed you pay for from your internet service provider (ISP).
Slow internet speed can have various causes, from network congestion to hardware issues, and checking your internet speed can help identify the problem. Sometimes, simply restarting your modem or router can improve your internet speed, while other times, you might need to upgrade your hardware or switch to a different ISP.
Furthermore, checking your internet speed can help you determine if you have enough bandwidth to support multiple devices and heavy internet usage. For instance, if you frequently experience buffering while streaming videos or web pages take a long time to load, it might be an indication that you need to upgrade your internet plan or reduce the number of devices connected to your network.
To Identify Slow Connection
Checking your internet speed can help you identify whether your internet connection is slow or not. Slow internet speeds can be caused by several factors such as outdated network drivers, router problems, and too many connected devices. By checking your internet speed, you can determine whether your internet service provider is delivering the internet speed you are paying for or not.
- Monitor Network Traffic: You can identify slow connection by monitoring the network traffic. If you see that there is very little data being sent or received, it could be an indicator that you are experiencing slow internet speed.
- Run a Speed Test: Use a speed test tool to measure the download and upload speed of your internet connection. You can find several free speed test tools online such as Ookla Speedtest, Fast.com, and Google Fiber Speed Test.
- Compare Your Internet Speed: You can compare your internet speed with the internet speed that you are supposed to receive according to your internet service provider’s plan. If the speed you are receiving is significantly lower than what you are supposed to get, then it’s time to call your internet service provider and report the problem.
- Check Your Router: Sometimes, your internet speed can be slow due to a problem with your router. Check your router and make sure that it is not outdated and that it is configured properly.
- Check Your Network Drivers: Outdated or corrupt network drivers can also cause slow internet speed. Check your computer’s network drivers and make sure that they are updated and working properly.
Identifying a slow internet connection is important because it can affect your daily tasks such as streaming, downloading, and browsing. With a slow internet connection, your productivity can suffer, and you may experience frustration when using the internet. By identifying the problem, you can take the necessary steps to fix it and improve your internet speed.
To Troubleshoot Connection Issues
Another reason why checking your internet speed is important is to troubleshoot any connection issues you may be experiencing. Slow internet speeds can cause web pages to load slowly, videos to buffer, and downloads to take longer than usual. By testing your internet speed, you can determine if your internet connection is the root of the problem.
- Identify the cause of connection issues: By running a speed test, you can determine if your internet connection is the source of the issue. If your internet speed is slow, you may need to contact your internet service provider (ISP) to address the issue.
- Check for connectivity issues: Low internet speeds may also indicate a connectivity issue. Checking your internet speed will help you determine if the issue is with your device or your internet connection.
- Resolve issues quickly: Running a speed test can help you quickly identify and resolve any connection issues you may be experiencing.
If you are experiencing frequent connection issues, running a speed test regularly can help you stay on top of the problem and ensure that your internet speeds are up to par. This can save you time and frustration in the long run.
How to Check Internet Speed in Windows 10 using Task Manager?
If you are experiencing slow internet speeds, it can be frustrating to pinpoint the root of the issue. Luckily, Windows 10 provides a simple and effective way to check your internet speed using the built-in Task Manager. This feature allows you to quickly and easily measure the speed of your internet connection.
To check your internet speed, first open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard. Once the Task Manager is open, click on the Performance tab. Here, you will see a variety of performance metrics for your computer, including your network usage.
Under the Performance tab, you will see a section labeled Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your internet connection type. This section displays your current network usage and speed. To see your current internet speed, simply start a download or upload, and the speed will be displayed in real-time under the Speed column.
Checking your internet speed using Task Manager is a quick and easy way to diagnose potential internet connection issues. Whether you are experiencing slow download speeds or issues with streaming media, using Task Manager to check your internet speed can help you quickly identify and resolve the issue.
How to Check Internet Speed in Windows 10 using Task Manager?
Open Task Manager
Task Manager is a powerful tool in Windows 10 that allows you to monitor your system’s performance and diagnose issues. Here are three easy ways to open Task Manager:
Method 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard. This will open Task Manager directly.
Method 2: Right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager from the context menu.
Method 3: Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and select Task Manager from the options menu.
Once Task Manager is open, you can use it to monitor your system’s performance, including your internet speed.
Alternatively, you can also use the following steps to open Task Manager using the Run dialog box:- Press Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type taskmgr and press Enter.
- This will open Task Manager on your Windows 10 computer.
Task Manager is a versatile tool that can help you manage and monitor your computer’s performance. By using it to check your internet speed, you can quickly diagnose potential connection issues and get back to browsing the web with ease.
| Method | Keystrokes | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Method 1 | Ctrl + Shift + Esc | Opens Task Manager directly. |
| Method 2 | Right-click taskbar and select Task Manager | Opens Task Manager from the context menu. |
| Method 3 | Ctrl + Alt + Del | Opens a menu from which Task Manager can be selected. |
| Method 4 | Windows key + X, then Y | Opens Task Manager from the Power User menu. |
| Method 5 | Windows key + R, then type taskmgr | Opens Task Manager using the Run dialog box. |
Now that you know how to open Task Manager in Windows 10, you can use it to check your internet speed and diagnose potential issues.
Click on the “Performance” Tab
After opening the Task Manager, click on the “Performance” tab located on the top menu bar. This tab shows various performance-related metrics of your computer, including the CPU usage, Memory usage, GPU usage, and network activity.
The “Performance” tab is an essential tool to monitor the overall performance of your computer. By default, the tab displays a graphical representation of the usage of various system resources. You can change the view to display more detailed information, such as a live graph of CPU usage, memory usage, and network activity.
If you want to check the internet speed, you need to pay attention to the “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” section under the “Performance” tab. This section shows the real-time upload and download speeds of your internet connection. To check your internet speed, you need to perform an action that requires an internet connection and observe the speed meter in the “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” section.
Check the Network Speed
Now that you’re on the Performance tab, you will see several sections. The first one is “CPU”, and the second is “Memory”. Look for the third section, “Ethernet”. If you’re on a Wi-Fi connection, it will say “Wi-Fi” instead of “Ethernet”. Click on “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” to expand the section.
Here, you can find the speed of your network connection. Look for the “Link Speed” or “Speed” field. The number listed here is the speed of your connection in megabits per second (Mbps). If you have a fast internet connection, you should see a high number listed here. If your connection is slow, the number will be lower.
Remember that the speed listed here is the maximum speed of your network connection. The actual speed you get depends on several factors, such as the quality of your router, the distance from your router, and the number of devices connected to your network.
How to Check Internet Speed in Windows 10 using Command Prompt?
If you want to check your Internet speed using the Command Prompt, follow the simple steps below.
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt by typing “cmd” in the search bar and clicking on the app.
Step 2: Once the Command Prompt is open, type “ping google.com” and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the ping to finish. Once it is done, you will see the results of the ping test, including the average time it took to ping the server in milliseconds.
Step 4: Now, type “tracert google.com” and press Enter. This command will give you a list of all the servers your connection goes through before reaching Google’s server.
Step 5: Look at the first server on the list and note the time it took to reach it. This time represents the speed of your Internet connection to that server.
Checking your Internet speed using Command Prompt is a quick and easy way to get an idea of your connection’s speed. However, keep in mind that these results may not be 100% accurate, as they only test your connection to a single server. For a more comprehensive test, use an online speed test tool.
Open Command Prompt
There are several ways to open Command Prompt, but the easiest is to type “cmd” in the Windows search bar and click on the “Command Prompt” result that appears.
You can also press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, type “cmd” in the box, and click “OK” or press Enter to open Command Prompt.
Another way is to open the Start menu, scroll down to the Windows System folder, and click on Command Prompt.
How to Check Internet Speed in Windows 10 using Third-Party Apps?
If you’re not satisfied with the built-in tools in Windows 10 or prefer a more visually appealing interface, you can use third-party apps to check your internet speed. Speedtest by Ookla is a popular choice that offers both a web-based version and a desktop app for Windows.
Another great option is Fast.com by Netflix. It’s a simple and straightforward tool that quickly shows your internet speed without any distractions or ads.
If you want more features and advanced metrics, you can try NetSpeedMonitor, a free utility that sits in your taskbar and constantly monitors your network speed and usage. It provides detailed graphs and statistics for both upload and download speeds.
For those who prefer a mobile app, Speedtest by Ookla and Fast.com are also available on iOS and Android devices. Other popular options include WiFi Speed Test, Internet Speed Test, and SpeedSmart.
It’s important to note that third-party apps may not always provide the same accurate results as the built-in tools in Windows 10. Additionally, some apps may come with ads or require a paid subscription for full access to all features.
Use Speedtest by Ookla
If you are looking for a reliable and accurate third-party app to check your internet speed on Windows 10, then Speedtest by Ookla is a popular choice. It is a free app that measures your internet speed and provides detailed information about your connection.
You can download the app from the Microsoft Store and install it on your Windows 10 device. Once installed, launch the app and click on the “GO” button to start the speed test. The app will then measure your download and upload speeds as well as your ping.
The app also provides a graphical representation of your speed test results, making it easy to understand and compare different test results. Additionally, the app allows you to choose from a variety of servers located in different countries, so you can test your connection speed to servers located near you or far away.
Use Fast.com by Netflix
Fast.com is another popular and reliable online tool to check internet speed. The tool is powered by Netflix, so it’s a great option if you are looking to test your connection speed for streaming.
Unlike other online speed test tools, Fast.com only measures your download speed, which is important for streaming video content. The test is simple and easy to use, and the results are displayed in real-time.
To use Fast.com, simply visit the website in your web browser and click on the “Go” button. The tool will begin measuring your download speed and display the results in Mbps.
Fast.com also provides additional information about your network, such as your IP address, location, and your internet service provider (ISP).
Use NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor is a free utility that enables you to monitor your internet speed in real-time. It displays your current speed, upload and download usage, and total transfer amounts for the day, week, and month. You can customize the display units and set alerts for high data usage. It works on Windows 7, 8, and 10, and is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
To install NetSpeedMonitor, download the installation file from their website, run the installer, and follow the on-screen instructions. After installation, you will see a small graph in your taskbar that shows your current download and upload speed.
To view more detailed information, right-click the graph and select “NetSpeedMonitor” from the context menu. This will open the NetSpeedMonitor window, which displays your current upload and download speeds, as well as total transfer amounts.
Tips to Improve Your Internet Speed on Windows 10
Disable unnecessary background processes: Windows 10 has many processes that run in the background, consuming network resources. Disabling the unnecessary processes can free up bandwidth and improve your internet speed.
Use a wired connection instead of wireless: If possible, use a wired connection instead of wireless as it can provide a more stable and faster internet connection.
Clear browser cache and history: Over time, browsing history and cache can accumulate and slow down your internet speed. Clearing the cache and history can help speed up your browsing experience.
Restart Your Router
Unplug your router and wait for 30 seconds before plugging it back in. This simple fix can often solve issues related to slow internet speeds. Sometimes routers can become overloaded with data, and restarting them can clear out the cache and improve performance.
Check your router placement. Make sure your router is in a central location in your home and away from other electronics that may interfere with the signal. Walls and other obstructions can also weaken the signal, so try to keep your router in an open area.
Update your router’s firmware. Manufacturers often release updates to improve their devices’ performance and security. Check your router’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to update the firmware.
Remove Background Apps
If you have several apps running in the background, it can slow down your internet speed. Some of these apps might be consuming data without your knowledge, causing slow internet speeds.
You can remove unwanted apps running in the background by going to the Windows 10 Task Manager. Press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys together to open the Task Manager. Select the apps that you do not need and click on the End Task button. This will close the app and free up resources, resulting in improved internet speed.
You can also disable the startup apps that run automatically when you turn on your computer. To do this, go to the Task Manager and click on the Startup tab. You can then disable the apps that you do not need by right-clicking on them and selecting Disable. This will prevent these apps from running in the background, allowing your internet speed to improve.
Another option is to use a third-party app like CCleaner, which can help you manage startup apps and disable the ones you don’t need.
Update Your Network Drivers
Network drivers are the software components that enable your computer to communicate with your network and the internet. Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause slow internet speed or even connectivity issues. To update your network drivers:
- Identify the network adapter: Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager. Under Network adapters, you’ll find the name of your network adapter.
- Download the latest drivers: Go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your network adapter.
- Install the drivers: Double-click the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new drivers.
- Restart your computer: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
If you’re not comfortable updating your network drivers manually, you can use driver updater software to automatically download and install the latest drivers for your network adapter.
Updating your network drivers can significantly improve your internet speed and connectivity, so it’s a good idea to check for updates regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different ways to check internet speed in Windows 10?
There are various ways to check internet speed in Windows 10, such as using built-in tools like Task Manager, PowerShell, or Network and Sharing Center. You can also use third-party apps like Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com by Netflix to check your internet speed.
How can I check my internet speed using Task Manager?
You can check your internet speed using Task Manager in Windows 10 by opening the Task Manager and selecting the Performance tab. Under the Network section, you’ll see your current download and upload speeds.
What is the easiest way to check internet speed in Windows 10?
The easiest way to check your internet speed in Windows 10 is by using a third-party app like Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com by Netflix. These apps are simple to use and provide accurate information about your internet speed.
How often should I check my internet speed in Windows 10?
You should check your internet speed in Windows 10 regularly to ensure that you are getting the speeds you are paying for from your internet service provider. It’s recommended to check your internet speed at least once a month or whenever you notice a drop in performance.
What should I do if my internet speed is slow in Windows 10?
If you are experiencing slow internet speeds in Windows 10, you can try restarting your router, removing background apps, updating your network drivers, and clearing your browser cache. You can also contact your internet service provider to troubleshoot any issues with your connection.