Running an internet speed test is easy. You click a button, wait a few seconds, and see numbers for download speed, upload speed, and sometimes ping or jitter. But understanding what those numbers mean — and why they don’t always match what you expect — can be confusing.
Watch: Understanding Your Internet Speed Test
This short video explains download speed, upload speed, Wi-Fi performance, and why fiber internet delivers more consistent results.
How to Run an Internet Speed Test
There are several easy ways to test your internet speed:
- Speedtest by Ookla (speedtest.net): One of the most popular options. Just click “Go” and the test will automatically choose a nearby server for the most accurate results.
- Northern WiFi app: If you’re a Northern Lights Fiber customer, you can run speed tests directly through the app once you log in using the email you signed up with. This test measures the speed we deliver to your home, without being affected by
Wi-Fi, distance from the router, or device limitations. - Google Speed Test: Simply search “speed test” on Google and click “Run Speed Test” at the top of the results.
It’s normal for results to vary slightly between tests. Internet traffic changes constantly, and speed tests only show how your connection is performing at that exact moment. Think of them as a snapshot, not a permanent score.
Speed tests are best used to:
- Check that you’re generally getting the speeds you pay for
- Help troubleshoot connection issues
Download and Upload Speeds Explained
The two main numbers you’ll see are download speed and upload speed.
- Download speed measures how fast data moves from the internet to your device (streaming, browsing, downloading files).
- Upload speed measures how fast data moves from your device to the internet (video calls, virtual meetings, sending files, online gaming, cloud backups).
Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). This tells you how much data can move across your connection every second. For example, 1 Gbps is 1,000 Mbps, which allows multiple people in a household to stream, work, and video call at the same time without slowdowns.
What Different Internet Speeds Can Handle
- 1 Mbps: Basic web browsing and email
- 5 Mbps: HD video streaming (minimum)
- 1 Gbps: Multiple 4K streams, video calls, gaming, and smart devices all at once
With most internet packages, download speeds are higher than upload speeds. This is called an asymmetrical connection. Fiber internet is different — it provides equal upload and download speeds, which is especially important for video calls, remote work, content sharing, and home businesses.
What Are Ping and Jitter?
Some speed tests also show ping and jitter:
- Ping (latency): How long it takes data to travel from your device to a server and back, measured in milliseconds (ms).
- Under 50 ms is excellent for gaming and video calls
- Higher ping can cause lag or delays
- Jitter: How much your ping varies over time.
- Lower jitter means a more stable connection
- High jitter can cause choppy video or dropped calls
Even if your download speed looks great, high ping or jitter can still affect how smooth your internet feels.
Why Your Wi-Fi Speed May Be Slower Than Your Internet Speed
Your speed test result is only as fast as the weakest link in the chain. When you test on a phone or laptop using Wi-Fi, the result includes your home network—not just your internet connection.
Factors that affect Wi-Fi speed include:
- Distance from the router
- Walls, floors, and building materials
- The number of devices connected at the same time
- Router quality, age, and placement
Testing from a wired connection or directly through your router (if supported) shows the true speed coming into your home.
How to Get Better Internet Performance at Home
Not every device needs full gigabit speeds, but if you want better performance in certain rooms or on specific devices, you can:
- Place your router in a central, open location
- Upgrade older Wi-Fi equipment
- Use wired connections for high-demand devices (TV’s, Gaming Console, etc.)
- Add mesh Wi-Fi systems for larger homes
Fiber provides the speed—your home network helps deliver it where you need it most.
Not getting good results from your speed test? Give our Customer Care team a call, and have Technical Support take a look at your modem remotely.
