Term of the Moment
Dart
Redirected from: download rate
Definition: Internet speed
The performance of an Internet connection, which is based on the number of bits per second that data travels from the user to the Internet (upload) and from the Internet to the user (download). Depending on the type of connection (cable, satellite, etc.), the speed differs dramatically. The download rate is higher than the upload, because a short request to the website (upload) results in a much larger download of Web pages, images and videos.
How Much Is Enough?
Ten megabits per second (10 Mbps) up and 100 megabits down (100 Mbps) is generally considered adequate for most households. However, if several people are watching 4K videos, even 200 Mbps down may not be sufficient. Gigabit service (a billion bits down) may be required in an office with many employees constantly online.
Pricing
Internet access via cable, DSL, FiOS and satellite is priced on maximum download/upload speeds. Pricing from a cellular carrier is based on bytes (not bits) of data transfer in both directions (see carrier data plans), and the download speed can vary significantly depending on current location and activity.
From SPEEDTEST.NET
How Much Is Enough?
Ten megabits per second (10 Mbps) up and 100 megabits down (100 Mbps) is generally considered adequate for most households. However, if several people are watching 4K videos, even 200 Mbps down may not be sufficient. Gigabit service (a billion bits down) may be required in an office with many employees constantly online.
Pricing
Internet access via cable, DSL, FiOS and satellite is priced on maximum download/upload speeds. Pricing from a cellular carrier is based on bytes (not bits) of data transfer in both directions (see carrier data plans), and the download speed can vary significantly depending on current location and activity.
The results taken on a desktop computer (top) in early 2024 measured the speed of Comcast's residential cable service near New Hope, Pennsylvania. The bottom image is Comcast's cellular speed in the same location. "Ping 27ms" means it took 27 milliseconds to transmit a packet and receive a response (see ping). See Xfinity.