By Tom Bull
We all rely heavily on the internet, so having a fast and reliable internet connection has become vital. With increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive activities, such as streaming videos, online gaming and remote work, the question is… How fast is fast internet?
Many internet service providers (ISPs) are promoting gigabit internet speeds, claiming that it’s the ultimate solution for all your connectivity needs. However, most homes and businesses won’t truly benefit from it.
How Do We Measure Internet Speed?
Internet speed refers to the rate at which data is transmitted and received over the internet. It is measured in bits per second (Bps), primarily megabits per second (Mbps) and gigabits per second (Gbps). The more you have, the faster it is.
All internet providers measure both download and upload speeds. The download speed represents how quickly data downloads, while the upload speed indicates how fast data can be sent from your device.
Myth: You Need Gigabit Internet for Optimal Performance
A common myth perpetuated by ISPs is that you need gigabit internet speeds to have a fast online experience. They often advertise this to lure customers into subscribing to premium plans. However, the truth is that the average user doesn’t require such high speeds.
For most everyday tasks like web browsing, email, social media and streaming video, a connection with speeds from 5 to 15 Mbps per user is more than sufficient. Gigabit speeds are geared toward heavy online gamers, content creators or businesses with specific requirements.
Which Factors Affect Internet Speed?
Network congestion – During peak usage hours, when many users in your area are simultaneously accessing the internet, the network can become congested. This is the case locally with Comcast (Xfinity), but not with Verizon FiOS, which has a dedicated line just for your home or business – no congestion or fluctuation in speeds.
Network equipment – The quality and capabilities of your router, and other network equipment, affects your internet speed. Certain outdated equipment can be limited to slower speeds, meaning you are not really getting what you pay for.
Wired vs. wireless – Wired connections offer faster speeds and more stability compared to Wi-Fi. If you require the highest speeds possible, connecting your device directly to the router via an Ethernet cable is recommended. However, Wi-Fi can still provide satisfactory speeds for most regular activities.
Internal network setup – The way your home or business network is set up can impact your speed. Poorly configured routers, excessive network traffic, or outdated cabling and network equipment can create bottlenecks and reduce speeds.
How to Choose the Right Internet Speed
Number of users – If you live alone or require minimal internet usage, a plan with speeds around 100 Mbps would be adequate. However, if you have a larger family, multiple users simultaneously streaming, gaming, or working from home, or a small business, you should purchase a plan with 200-400 Mbps, or maybe even a gigabit!
Types of activities – Basic web browsing, email, and social media don’t require significant bandwidth. However, if you frequently stream high-definition videos, participate in online gaming, or regularly work with large files, you will benefit from a faster internet connection.
Budget – Internet plans with higher speeds typically come at a higher cost. Consider your budget and prioritize your needs to find the best fit for you. Assess the value of faster speeds versus the additional cost to find the right balance for your situation and ensure that your existing equipment can support faster speeds if needed.
Tom Bull has been in the computer and technology field since 1981. He spent 25 years working with small businesses to manage their technology before starting Two River Computer in Fair Haven in 2006.
The article originally appeared in the January 18 – January 24, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
