FAQ

The quality of service test is currently in beta. The following are some frequently asked questions by users.

What does the score mean?

When you conduct a test, we collect raw results. To accurately compare and quantify your connection against others, we summarize and normalize this raw data into scores which are designed to quantify the Internet user experience. These scores are displayed on the top of the results page, as well as on comparison pages.

What about the synthetic score?

The synthetic score is single number given to each test run and is comprised of the scores achieved for that test. We will consider adding better synthetic score methods as more results come in.

I have a problem and cannot start the test. How can I get help?

The test runs in a java applet, so you will need Java to run it.
Be sure to accept the security prompt to allow the Qos Test network access to the Internet from Java.
Additionally, because of technical limitations of some browsers, you cannot run more than one test at a time. If you have having problems with the test, try restarting your browser altogether and run it again.
If problems still persist, please contact us with a description of the issue.

The test is stuck and cannot complete. What now?

The QoS test is a very rigorous test of your connection. It is possible that your Internet connection may momentarily fail as a result.
First, try to restart your browser and run it again. If the test repeatedly fails while running, it is likely an issue with your connection. You can seek help by contacting us or going to the discussion forums.

I managed to complete the test, but the results are no good :( What can I do?

The score is given on a total of 100, but such a figure is very hard / if not impossible to achieve due to the reason that no one particular location has excellent links with everywhere in the world (yet).
First compare the score with others on your same ISP, Country or Modem. If it is still bad, seek help in our discussion forum.

I'm getting different results when I retake the test! Why?

Although we strive for accuracy in our test, please understand that no two tests will achieve the exact same result due to the unpredictability of the Internet and your ISP's network load.
In fact, it is normal to receive differing test results at different times of the day because your ISP will most likely be under varying amounts of load.

I'm interested in this project. How can I help out?

Tell others to take the test! If you have additional bandwidth, you could help run a testing server node. We are also open to discussion on other collaboration or contributions. Feel free to contact us to discuss this.