When it comes to internet service, most users want fast-loading connections for their homes. However, with all of the jargon that comes with available packages, selecting an option that meets your needs may be challenging. Below are answers to a few questions you might have to help you pick the right one for your household.

4 Common Questions About Internet Speed

What is bandwidth?

People often use the terms speed and bandwidth interchangeably, but they pertain to different aspects of internet service.

Internet speed is how fast data is transmitted. Bandwidth is the capacity of transmission per unit of time, which is often measured in bits per second (bps). In simple terms, the larger the bandwidth, the faster the data transfer can be.

How much bandwidth do I need?

Your bandwidth requirements hinge on your typical activities, such as streaming music and videos, downloading and uploading files, playing online games, emailing, and surfing the web. It’s also essential to know the expected number of users in your household, as more devices mean more internet consumption.

Most service providers advertise their bandwidth connections by megabits per second (Mbps). In general, if people in the home often stream high-quality movies simultaneously, you’ll need around five to eight Mbps for each person.

Is there a way to check the speed of my connection?

There are speed test tools available online. These send test data to remote servers to come up with average figures for your speed.

Keep in mind that download and upload speeds are different. For example, posting content on the internet uses upload speeds, while watching videos relies on download speeds.

What factors affect internet speed?

The speed of your internet service depends on many factors, including the type of activity, number of users, and geographic location.

The medium of your connection also matters. For example, fiber-optic cable offers the fastest connections, but is only available in select urban areas. Satellite internet is often much slower because of its wireless data delivery. Digital subscriber line (DSL) and cable internet are somewhere in between, making them reliable and common options for homes.

 

If you want to upgrade your internet package to get high-speed internet, turn to Warwick Valley Telephone Company. They serve clients throughout Orange County, NY, and northern New Jersey, offering packages that support fast download speeds, HD streaming, quality video chats, and seamless online gaming experiences. Their speeds range up to 75 Mbps in several towns and neighborhoods. Call (845) 986-8080 to check availability, or learn more about their packages online.