How much internet speed do I need?

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According to a funny meme, a slow internet connection is one of the “worst things in life.”

But what is a GOOD internet speed? A good internet speed is whatever lets YOU do what you need to do online without limitations. That means a good internet speed for YOU might be different for everybody else based on what you do online and how many people and devices are connected to your network.

First, let’s talk about how internet speed is measured. Internet speed is measured in Mbps. What is Mbps, you ask? It’s a unit of measurement that stands for megabits per second, and it calculates how quickly packets of data are transmitted from the web to your internet-enabled device. The higher the Mbps, the faster the internet.

Even if you have a GOOD internet speed, your experience can still vary based on several factors:

  • How many devices are connected and in use simultaneously?
  • How many people are streaming video from Netflix, YouTube, or another service?
  • Are you using your home Wi-Fi for competitive online gaming?
  • Do you frequently need to send large files for work?
  • Do you regularly stream 4K videos, or do you mostly stick to simple online tasks?

Which brings us to the next question, how can you make your home internet faster? Even if you have the optimal speed for your household, you might still experience issues with slow internet. Factors such as wireless router placement, an unsecured network, auto-updating programs, and malware can all contribute to slow internet speed for tips on how to Optimize Your Wi-Fi.

The average Wi-Fi speed you experience around your home will generally be anywhere from 20-50% below the advertised maximum download speed due to wireless interference and how far you are from your router.

So, now that you have a better understanding of internet speed, here are some general download speed requirements based on everyday online activities:

 Data and Bandwidth

Download speed is much more important for the average user since you only notice upload speed when sharing large files. Therefore, it is normal for your upload speed to be slower than your download speed.

When you see the advertised speed of an internet plan, you usually see the download speed. So, what is the difference between upload and download speeds?  Here is a simple breakdown:

 Download and Upload Speed

Now comes the best part; choosing the option that is right for you. First, determine what your internet usage looks like, and if you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask! Our customer service reps are here to help you out to make sure you get the best internet speeds available to you. See our internet speeds and prices here.


STRATA NETWORKS is the leading telecommunications provider in the Uintah Basin, providing advanced voice, broadband, television, and nationwide wireless services. The company is headquartered in Roosevelt, Utah, with a coverage area extending into a tri-state region, serving over 60,000 customers. STRATA celebrates over 60 years of technology expertise, exceptional customer relations, and a devout corporate social responsibility to its community. The company functions as a local cooperative, in which customers can also become member-owners of the company who may receive patronage dividends and participate in company voting processes. More information is available at www.stratanetworks.com.

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