Comcast and Ookla Speedtest Give Different Speeds

As we navigate the complexities of our digital lives, it's not uncommon to encounter discrepancies in internet speed tests. This is exactly what happened when I compared Comcast and Ookla speedtests, leaving me with more questions than answers. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind these differences and provide some insights on how to improve your internet connection.

I recently discovered that my Ethernet cable was subpar, which led me to investigate further. To rectify the issue, I conducted a series of tests using Ookla speed test to measure my connection speeds. The results were astounding – or rather, astonishingly different from what I expected.

The Tests

To begin with, I connected my laptop directly to the router via an Ethernet cable and ran the speed test. The result was 67 Mbps for download speed and 17 Mbps for upload speed. Next, I tested my WiFi connection to the extended network and recorded speeds of between 1-5 Mbps for download and 2-6 Mbps for upload. Finally, I connected wirelessly to the router while keeping my laptop close by, achieving a download speed of 18 Mbps and an upload speed of 17 Mbps.

I also ran additional tests, connecting my laptop directly to the router via Ethernet cable from the 'office' area of the house (further away from the router), as well as wirelessly to the extended network from the same location. Unfortunately, the results were still inconsistent, with download speeds ranging from 1-5 Mbps.

The Powerline Adapter

I do have a TP-Link TL-WPA7510KIT powerline adapter connected to my laptop, which allows me to extend the range of my router. However, this made no significant difference in terms of download speed, whether I used the main router WiFi connection or the extended one.

BT Wholesale Test

But what about other speed tests available? I decided to take a closer look at BT wholesale test and found that it provided very different results from Ookla speedtest. This left me wondering – are these tests measuring the same thing?

The Reason Behind the Difference

After some research, I discovered that BT measures connection speeds between the exchange and my router, whereas other tests measure the connection speeds between my device/laptop and the internet. This explains the factor of 7x difference in speed results.

Getting Closer to Desired Speeds

So, what can be done to improve your internet connection? First and foremost, it's essential to identify the root cause of the issue. In my case, a subpar Ethernet cable was the culprit. By replacing it with a new one, I achieved better results.

Secondly, consider investing in a quality WiFi range extender or powerline adapter to boost your signal strength. This can make a significant difference, especially if you have a large house with weak WiFi signals in certain areas.

Lastly, be aware that different speed tests may provide varying results due to the way they measure connection speeds. If you're experiencing poor internet speeds, it's essential to run multiple tests and consult with your ISP for further assistance.

In conclusion, while Comcast and Ookla speedtests may yield different results, there are steps you can take to improve your internet connection and get closer to the speeds you desire. By understanding the reasons behind these discrepancies and taking proactive measures, you can ensure a stable and reliable online experience.

Comcast and ookla speedtest give different speeds