How to Run an Accurate Speed Test

Running a speed test is a simple way to check how fast your broadband is performing. Follow the steps below to get the most reliable results.

1. Using Our Speed Checker

You can test your connection by visiting our Speed Checker.

• The tool will automatically choose the closest test server for best accuracy.
• Click GO to begin the speed test.
• If you want to compare against our own network, click the drop-down menu under the GO button and select Orbital Net (London). This is optional and useful for comparison only.
• Run the test more than once (ideally to different servers) to get a realistic average.

Things That Can Affect Results

• Distance matters: 
  The further away the test server is, the higher the latency and the lower the potential speed.
  
  
• Busy servers: 
  If a test server is under heavy load, it may report slower results even if your connection is performing normally.

2. For the Most Accurate Results - Use a Cabled Test

A wired (Ethernet) test gives the most accurate picture of your broadband speed.

To run a cabled test:

• Plug a device directly into your router using an Ethernet cable.
• Make sure no other devices are downloading, streaming, or uploading at the same time.
• Run the Speed test.

If you do not have an Ethernet cable, you can use a Direct PPPoE test instead. This allows you to test directly on your broadband line. 

See: Testing Your Connection Using PPPoE.

Our Service Desk can guide you through this if needed.

3. Testing Over Wi-Fi

If you can’t use Ethernet, you can still test over Wi-Fi, but results may be lower due to wireless interference.

For the best Wi-Fi test results:

• Stand in the same room as the router, with a clear line of sight.
• Pause any downloads or streams on other devices.
• Disconnect devices you’re not actively using.
• Power the router off and back on to refresh the Wi-Fi connection before testing.

4. Sending Your Results to Us

Once you've run the test:

• Click Copy Link on the results page.
• Paste the link into an email.
• Send it to support@vfast.co.uk for our Service Desk to review