A new Netflix speed test offers a very simple way to test your current broadband speed connection. By visiting fast.com, users get a very simple read out of their current Internet connection. The test works for both fixed and mobile connections.
“Like the cellular data controls we recently introduced, fast.com is another tool consumers can use for greater insight and control of their Internet service,” says David Fullagar, Netflix vice president of content delivery architecture in a blog post. “Fast.com works in any country, and it is free for everyone — whether a Netflix member or not.”
The Netflix speed test tool is one of several now that Netflix is using to educate the public about the quality of their broadband connection, particularly in the context of streaming video quality. You can check fast.com to see if your current connection can support Netflix streaming for example.
If it is consistently not, Netflix hopes you will do something about it. Perhaps bug your ISP to offer better service, upgrade, or switch to one that does. The ultimate goal is to empower Netflix customers to help drive an agenda for better broadband, which ultimately facilitates more Netflix streaming as a result.
“We all want a faster, better Internet, yet Internet speeds vary greatly and can be affected by other users on your network or congestion with your Internet service provider,” says Fullager. “Like the cellular data controls we recently introduced, fast.com is another tool consumers can use for greater insight and control of their Internet service.”
Netflix has been ranking ISPs for streaming video performance for some time now. Those rankings are on an aggregate level and can be influenced by an ISP’s participation in Netflix’s caching program.
