We want you to get the most out of our new Speed Tester and are also planning, in conjunction with ComputerActive, to use the speed statistics we collect to lobby the Government for tighter regulations on the way broadband packages are advertised and the improve customer’s options if they’re not getting the service they signed up for, so we need to be sure that the results are as accurate as possible.
Software summary
The Speed Tester is a tool that measures the speed at which your broadband is running. It does this by sending a small file to your computer and recording how long it takes for the data to be downloaded. The size of the file varies depending on the package you’re on so that you get an accurate speed reading. Therefore you will be asked to enter:
Your Broadband Provider i.e. if you are with BT, select this from the drop down list.
The package speed you should be receiving and are paying for i.e. if your package is 1meg, select "Up to 1Mb"
There is no point paying for a super-fast broadband connection if you actually get less than 2Mb so you can use the Speed Tester to see if you’re getting value for money from your ISP.
Privacy statement
We value your privacy and although we record all speed test data so that we can use it to lobby the Government, in conjunction with ComputerActive, we will never share your information with anyone else. While your speed test data may be used for analysis, it will always be anonymous.
You also have to register to use this program but you can opt out of receiving any emails or further correspondence from us.
Licence
Free, but registration is required.
Requirements
Windows 2000/XP/2003 Server, Microsoft .Net Framework 2.0. The Speed Tester is compatible with Vista but may run slowly or experience problems. It is NOT Apple Mac compatible at present.
Installation
If your computer already has the .Net Framework then the installation should take around a minute. Installing the .Net Framework if you don’t already have it takes around 10 minutes itself.
Make sure that you install the Speed Tester on your local PC and not to a network drive.
Firstly you need to Register with BroadbandChoices. We want users to register so that we can ensure you always have the latest version of the software and to stop copyright infringement. You will also need your registration username and password to log into the Speed Tester.
Step 1: Register to get your username and password
Step 2: Login in to BroadbandChoices and then press Download
Step 3: Follow the set-up wizard
Enter your username and password, when instructed and then follow the configuration wizard