What Internet Speed Do I Need?

Speed needs depend on people, devices, streaming, work calls, gaming, cloud backups and upload needs. Download speed alone is not the full story.

Key idea

Plain-English guide to choosing internet speed for streaming, gaming, work from home, video calls, multiple users, upload speed and household devices.

What to check

  • Confirm service using the exact civic address, not only a city name.
  • For apartments and condos, include the unit number when checking availability.
  • Compare upload speed as well as download speed.
  • Check regular pricing after promotional periods.
  • Ask about installation, equipment rental, shipping, cancellation and equipment return rules.
  • For rural, cottage or remote service, consider line of sight, power, weather, obstructions and backup options.

Related pages

Browse locations · Provider reference · Internet types