How to use an Internet Speed test

Learn about how much speed you need for common online activities and how to use an Internet Speed test.

How much internet speed you need depends on what you’re doing online. For example, you’ll need more speed to stream a video than you would to check your emails. Here’s an idea of how much download speed you need for common online activities:

• Emails and web surfing: 0.5 to 1 Mbps
• Music streaming: 1 to 2 Mbps
• SD video streaming: 2 to 3 Mbps
• Video calls and gaming: 3 to 5 Mbps
• HD video streaming: 5 to 25 Mbps
• 4K video streaming and gaming: 25 to 50 Mbps

Note: speeds may vary based on file size and quantity.

The average upload speed needed for common online activities, is 1–5 Mbps per connected device. Here are some other average upload speeds that may be useful:

• HD video calls: 1.5 Mbps
• HD live video streaming: 1.5–6 Mbps
• Gaming: 3–6 Mbps
• Home security cameras: 0.2 Mbps (Rogers); 0.8–4 Mbps (Google Nest)
• Data backups: Runs in the background and uses the amount of upload bandwidth available without a specific minimum requirement.

If you’ve got an Ignite WiFi Gateway modem, use the Ignite HomeConnect app to test your internet speed.

If you’ve got another modem, use the steps below to test your internet speed:

1. Unplug your modem for 10 seconds, then plug it back in to reset it. For older modems, try resetting it online.
2. Restart the device you are using for the speed test.
3. Check that all cables, cords and devices are securely connected to your modem.
4. Make sure that your modem is in a central location, visible with some space around it.
5. Connect your device to the best available network.
6. Click Go below to run test your speed.

The results you get when you run a speed test are specific to:

• Your device’s make and model
• Whether you’re currently running other apps on that device
• Whether other devices in the home are online at the same time
• Whether you are doing the test over WiFi vs. a wired connection
• Your device’s distance from your Gateway
• Obstructions between your device and your Gateway while running the test
• Interference from neighbouring devices

Your internet needs may grow over time. Explore our internet plans to find the one that’s right for you.