Latest news with #highspeedinternet
CNET
3 days ago
- CNET
Get Your Internet Up to Speed: Here's How to Fix Lag
It's not cheap to get high-speed internet, so if you're paying top dollar for top speeds, you should ensure you're getting your money's worth. Although the advertised speeds may be coming into your home from your internet service provider, there could be other factors slowing your connection. Before upgrading to the next speed tier or buying a new router, let's go back to the basics. If you can determine that your ISP isn't throttling your internet connection, try restarting your modem and router or investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh network. But before you do anything permanent, start with a simple speed test to know what you're working with. Read on for some tips you can follow to improve your connection. First things first: What are download and upload speeds? You've probably heard your ISP talk about these terms, but what do they mean? In simple terms, those measurements gauge how quickly data travels from the internet to your device. Those speeds are measured in "megabits per second," or Mbps. Download speed measures how quickly you can receive (or download) data from the internet; it's also referred to as "downstream" speed. Catching up on the latest season of The White Lotus, scrolling through Bluesky or playing music on Spotify all require a decent download or downstream speed. Locating local internet providers Typically, when ISPs advertise speeds, they advertise the download speeds first. Until recently, upload speeds were considered a secondary necessity to a good internet connection, but both are important. Upload speeds (also referred to as "upstream" speed) measure how quickly you can send data to the internet. Using Zoom, gaming online, uploading content to Instagram and emailing all require a decent upload speed. Typically, upload speeds are much slower than download speeds, though it varies by internet connection type. For example, upload speeds in a cable connection tend to max out at 20 to 30Mbps. A fiber connection, on the other hand, nearly always delivers symmetrical download and upload speeds. If you're paying for a fiber connection with 1,000Mbps in download speed a month, you should also get 1,000Mbps in upload speed. So how much speed do you need? It depends on the number of devices in your home and your household's internet usage. If you have some heavy bandwidth users (like gamers, remote workers, students, etc.) and multiple smart home devices, you should consider a speedy 1-gig tier. You can consult CNET's internet speed guide for a closer look at recommended speeds. The Federal Communications Commission published a guideline for household broadband speeds based on the number of devices and people connected to the same network that we use as a basis for our internet speed guide. Basic service ranges from 3 to 8Mbps download/upload and will be good enough for light usage (browsing, email, video calls, streaming HD video, etc.). The FCC gives some recommendations on how fast a connection you'll need based on your usage. FCC/Screenshot by CNET Medium service is classified as 12-25Mbps and is best for up to three users or devices simultaneously, with medium to high usage depending on the activity. Finally, advanced service is any connection speed over 25Mbps and is best suited for those with more than four users or devices using the connection simultaneously for more than light usage. Despite the household broadband guidelines, the FCC defines a broadband connection as 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload. Even if you're using different levels of bandwidth throughout the day, you should have a minimum internet connection of at least 100Mbps for consistent, reliable speeds. Next, run a speed test on your computer, phone or tablet Before you can start troubleshooting your internet connection, you need to figure out what the actual speeds in your home are. Now that you know what download and upload speeds are, let's take a free internet speed test to see how much speed you're actually getting. You can use a slew of free apps and websites to gauge your speeds, notably or CloudFlare. (Disclosure: Speedtest is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.) Whether you install an app or run the test in your browser, a good rule of thumb is to run the test multiple times a day, occasionally in different places in your house, to get a thorough sense of your internet connection performance. The tests typically take less than a minute, so the process shouldn't take long. Screenshot by Cierra Noffke/CNET Typically, internet connection speeds vary based on the time of day and how many devices are connected, among other reasons. For a better overall picture of your home's internet speeds, I suggest running the speed test multiple times over a day or two and to record your results. If you have a Raspberry Pi, you can run internet speed tests on a set schedule that also uploads results to a file in your Google Drive. Ideally, you'd connect your computer directly to your ISP's modem with an Ethernet cable to run a speed test, but that's not always possible. Another option is to use your wireless router's app. You can do a speed test on your wireless router Depending on your wireless router, you can run a speed test through its dedicated app. For example, Google's Nest Wi-Fi can run a speed test in the app or ask Google Assistant how fast your internet connection is. Getty Images Eero, Linksys and Asus ZenWifi routers also include the same capability, although not all support asking a smart speaker to run the test. It's best to start by looking at a dedicated app. Using your wireless router's speed test may prove more accurate -- in theory, at least -- because the router is connected directly to your modem. You don't have to rush out and buy a new router if the speed test results are lower than you expect or are paying for. It could be the issue, depending on its age. Router technology, like any other technology, often changes, and that can lead to performance issues. For example, if you have cable internet, most ISPs recommend a DOCSIS 3.1 modem or gateway to handle higher speeds. Are your internet speeds slower than they should be? If you're finding that your speeds are typically much slower than those you're paying for, try taking several easy steps to boost your Wi-Fi connection. First, try simply turning your modem and router off for about 60 seconds before turning them back on. It's a tried-and-true trick that helps clear any bugs, glitches or software issues from your devices and allows them to reload with a fresh memory. If that doesn't help, and you've already tried optimizing your home for Wi-Fi, you can check to see if your ISP is experiencing an outage. For example, the first thing to do when your Comcast Xfinity connection is flaky is open the Xfinity My Account app and look for any service issues. The app will give you an estimated restoration time when there is one. Knowing that the issue isn't anything on your end means you can forgo any troubleshooting. If none of those solutions prove effective, the issue may be your internet connection type. Speeds offered by DSL, fixed wireless and cable providers are often slower than a fiber connection's lightning-fast reliability. If fiber is available to you, consider an upgrade. If not, it may be time to jump to a higher speed tier with your ISP to ensure your internet connection stays fast and reliable. FAQs What do download and upload speeds mean? Download and upload speeds refer to how quickly data gets downloaded and uploaded from the internet to your device and vice versa. Internet speeds are measured in megabits per second or Mbps. Download speeds are typically what internet providers advertise first. You need them for everything from streaming in 4K HD to scrolling through social media. Upload speeds are essential for uploading content to social media or to the web, gaming online or using Zoom. How do I test the speed of my internet? There are many free, convenient ways to test your internet speeds. CNET's favorite internet speed test is Ookla because it keeps a record of your tests, is user-friendly and shows metrics besides download and upload speed like latency. (Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.) There are plenty of options that you can use either in your browser or by downloading an app, like M-Lab or
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Comcast Begins Construction of Next-Gen Internet Network Across 7 Indiana Counties
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is one of the 11 most profitable NASDAQ stocks to buy now. Earlier on May 28, Comcast announced the commencement of construction for its next-gen high-speed internet network across 7 counties in Indiana: Fayette, Rush, Delaware, Boone, Shelby, Morgan, and Miami. This multi-million dollar investment aims to connect over 10,000 residents and businesses in these areas and provide them with access to Comcast's full suite of services. The project is a joint investment in partnership with Indiana's Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program, which has allocated $350 million towards improving broadband access and adoption throughout the state. Over the past 3 years, Comcast has invested ~$600 million specifically in Indiana's network infrastructure, which contributed to its broader national investment of over $80 billion in its fiber-rich network across the country over the last decade. A couple watching their favorite show on TV, enjoying the entertainment network service. The company already has an impressive technological footprint in Indiana, with an existing 49,000 miles of fiber-rich network infrastructure and over 65,500 WiFi hotspots statewide. Since its launch in 2011, Comcast's Internet Essentials program, which offers low-cost, high-speed internet and affordable computers to eligible households, has also helped more than 772,000 Indiana residents connect to the internet. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is a media and technology company that operates through Residential Connectivity & Platforms, Business Services Connectivity, Media, Studios, and Theme Parks segments. While we acknowledge the potential of CMCSA as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the . READ NEXT: and . Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
CTV News
11-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Dedicated Waterloo Region fibre-optic network marks 25 years
An undated image of the WCDSB network team working on our WREPNet connection to St Mary's high school (Submitted by Chris Demers). A celebration was held Wednesday to mark 25 years since a high-speed fibre-optic network connected hundred of public organizations in Waterloo Region. The Waterloo Region Education and Public Network (WREPnet) was created in 2000. Fibre-optics are thin strands of glass or plastic that sends information through light. The network allowed users to plug in and use the internet at any speed required. 'It is an extremely fast network,' explained Chris Demers, the chief information officer for the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB). 'If you look at other regions and other city areas, they don't have such a robust network.' Demers said WREPnet is the backbone of all information that travels through the region. Multiple organizations use the network, including WCDSB, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB), the Region of Waterloo, the cities of Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge, as well as universities, schools and libraries. Wednesday's event gave users a chance to connect in person. WREPnet 25 years Waterloo Region Education and Public Network An event at Region of Waterloo Administrative Headquarters to mark 25 years of the Waterloo Region Education and Public Network, June 11, 2025 (Sidra Jafri/CTV News). 'We look at it as a real community of technical people,' said Demers. 'We get together and we discuss common issues. We discuss technologies even outside of networking, like cyber security and artificial intelligence is a big thing that we're talking about now.' The decision to create the network began back to 1998, according to WREPnet's website . Prescient International Inc. built a similar educational network for the North York District School Board, then reached out to both the Catholic and public school boards in Waterloo Region. More than 380 organizations currently use WREPnet. WREPnet 25 years Waterloo Region Education and Public Network An event at Region of Waterloo Administrative Headquarters to mark 25 years of the Waterloo Region Education and Public Network, June 11, 2025 (Sidra Jafri/CTV News). 'The network is extremely secure,' said Demers. 'Every partner has a separate, tactical path, which cannot be crossed between them. So, any kind of information or private data, we have [on] multiple streams. For example, the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. We have a stream across the network just for students, we have a stream across the network just for administrative data, and every organization has the same thing.' Demers said WREPnet creates a cohesive community. 'It brings our important public services together into one envelope and it also allows us to be a community of technical, security and infrastructure,' he explained, adding that it allows them to 'communicate critical data between the different Waterloo Region partners and also with the rest of the world.'
Associated Press
11-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Kinetic named Newsweek's 'Best High-Speed Rural Internet' for second year in a row
CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jun 11, 2025-- Kinetic, a leading provider in residential and business fiber internet, was again recognized for its outstanding performance in providing affordable high-speed internet, earning Newsweek 's accolade of 2025 ' Best High-Speed Rural Internet Provider.' This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: Newsweek cites Kinetic's multi-gig internet specials, cost, speeds and free Wi-Fi installation. This recognition underscores Kinetic's leadership in delivering cost-effective broadband solutions, particularly in rural and suburban areas. The Newsweek article announcing this accolade prominently features Kinetic's multi-gig internet specials, cost, speeds and free Wi-Fi installation. Kinetic offers internet services with no annual contracts or data caps, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all its customers. Newsweek 's accolade is a testament to Kinetic's commitment to offering exceptional, cutting-edge internet services at affordable rates across its service areas. Fast internet opens doors for communities with unmatched online experiences. This accolade come on the heels of recent recognition by CNET, which also highlighted Kinetic as " 2025 Best Rural Fiber Internet Provider ' and Forbes Home, which named Kinetic as " Best Fiber Internet Provider of 2024. ' Kinetic continues to bring more rural communities future proof fiber internet that is essential in today's digital world, internet should be accessible and affordable for everyone, and that's what Kinetic consistently strives to solve for. Interested residents can call toll-free at 877-807-9463 to inquire about eligibility for Kinetic fiber or visit to explore plans and pricing. About Kinetic: Kinetic, a Windstream company, offers reliable fiber-based broadband to consumers and small to medium-sized businesses in 18 states. The company's quality-first approach connects customers to new opportunities and possibilities by delivering a full suite of advanced communications services backed by robust security and friendly customer success experts. Kinetic is focused on expanding its fiber network and bridging the digital divide to deliver modern solutions to customers in underserved areas. Additional information about Kinetic is available via our customer portal at or The company also offers managed cloud communications and security services to mid-to-large enterprises, government entities and educational institutions across the U.S. as well as customized wavelength and dark fiber solutions to carriers, content providers and hyperscalers in the U.S. and Canada. Windstream is privately held and headquartered in Little Rock, Ark. Category: Kinetic View source version on Victoria Carman KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA OHIO INDUSTRY KEYWORD: TECHNOLOGY MOBILE/WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS INTERNET CARRIERS AND SERVICES SOURCE: Windstream Holdings Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 06/11/2025 09:30 AM/DISC: 06/11/2025 09:28 AM
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Zain Bahrain unit seals partnership with Orchid Developers
Zain Business, the B2B arm of leading telecom services operator Zain Bahrain, has signed a new agreement with Orchid Developers, one of the first developers to offer freehold commercial and residential projects in Bahrain. As per the deal, the duo will provide the tenants and residents of all Orchid Towers with ultra-high-speed internet, ensuring seamless connectivity and a superior digital experience. As part of this collaboration, Zain Business, leveraging its expertise in advanced fiber-optic and wireless internet access, will be the provider for residents of the new buildings. This partnership is part of Zain's strategy to accelerate digital transformation for enterprises, developers, and customers to drive innovation and growth across the Kingdom, it stated. Ali Mustafa, Chief of Business & Wholesale Officer at Zain Bahrain, said: "We are honoured to partner with Orchid Developers, to bring high-performance internet to their landmark projects." "This agreement reflects Zain Business's dedication to delivering innovative digital and technological solutions that enhance how people live and work. Zain Bahrain aims to set a new standard for high-rise buildings and properties with smart connectivity solutions across the Kingdom," he stated. Orchid Developers CEO Dr Bashar Ahmadi said: "Partnering with Zain Business ensures our residents and tenants enjoy cutting-edge connectivity, further elevating the premium experience Orchid Developers is known for." "We aim to integrate innovative, future-ready solutions into all our projects, enhancing convenience and value for our community," he stated. Zain Business has been scaling its next-generation digital infrastructure and partnerships to support the growing demand for efficient, scalable, and cost-effective digital and technological solutions, which include IoT solutions and cloud services, helping businesses and communities thrive in an increasingly connected world. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
