FCC Encourages Internet Users to Test Broadband Speeds

As you probably know, the FCC is in the midst of laying out its National Broadband Plan, to be announced in less than a week. In effort to help give a better picture of what current broadband speeds are, the agency is encouraging Internet users to make use of several speed-testing tools that it is making available. Sure, we know what Internet providers are telling us the speeds are, but what are they actually?

Beginning today, mobile and home broadband users can go to Broadband.gov, enter in their addresses and use one of two tools to test speeds. Android and iPhone users can download a free app at the respective app store to test their broadband.

The data collected by the move will help the FCC get a clearer picture of how fast (or slow) downloads and uploads actually are. It will also help the agency prevent providers from over-estimating their speeds.

Sounds like a pretty helpful tool, so if you have a few minutes, get started at Broadband.gov. [via Wired]