Tools to Evaluate a Provider

Not all Internet Service Providers offer the same service. Here are some tools to help you evaluate potential providers and the services they offer. 

Already have service? Check your speed! Does it reflect what your provider is billing you? Take the Minnesota Speed Test.

Here are the factors you might consider when choosing an Internet Service Provider (ISP). 

Service delivery type

Fiber, Fixed Wireless, Wi-Fi, Satellite, Cable and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) which is delivered over copper telephone lines, are the types of internet service. 

Comparing Types of Internet Service – from BandwidthPlace.com
Cable, DSL, Fiber, Wireless and Satellite

Download & Upload Speeds

Download speed signifies how many megabits of data per second it takes to download data from a server to your device. These files may be images, videos, text, files and audio. Activities such as listening to music, downloading large files or streaming videos require you to download data.

Upload speed is how many megabits of data per second your device can send information to another or server on the internet. Sending email, playing live tournament-style and a friend require fast upload speeds for you to send data to someone else’s server.

Already have service? Here are tips to increase your speeds. 

How much Internet Speed do I need? From Broadbandnow.com

Demystifying upload speeds
CCG Consulting examines consumer and business telecommunications issues

More Tips

General Considerations from eTutorials.org

How to Choose an Internet Service from nerdwallet