What's a Good Internet Speed for General Internet Usage?

Internet speed often determines what you can do online, with higher speeds required for data-heavy applications or networks with multiple users. That said, not everyone needs the same internet speed. If you use the internet primarily for social media and email, there’s no point in paying for an internet plan with speeds intended for avid gamers. 

What's a Good Internet Speed? 

How is Internet Speed Measured? 

Internet speed is measured in Mbps, or Megabits per second. One megabit equals one million bits of data.

An internet plan has an upload and download speed. Download speed determines how quickly you receive data from the internet, while upload speed determines how quickly you can send data to the internet. Download speeds are typically faster than upload speeds, as most networks receive more data than they send. 

General Internet Usage Needs & Speed Recommendations 

The FCC recommends the following internet speeds for light, medium, and heavy usage: 

Factors Influencing Internet Speed Needs 

Number of Devices in Use

Bandwidth describes how much information your network can transfer at any given time, an amount determined by your internet speed. Every device connected to your network requires a share of your bandwidth. When multiple users stream, game, and chat simultaneously, your network requires a higher internet speed to handle these activities without lag. Smart homes with multiple connected devices also require higher speeds. 

Streaming Quality 

You can stream standard definition video with as little as 3 Mbps. As you move into higher definitions, you require faster internet speeds to prevent buffering problems. HD movies require at least 5 Mbps, while full HD, or 1080p, requires 10-12 Mbps. 4K/Ultra HD needs internet speeds of 25 Mbps or more. 

Online Gaming 

Online gaming demands different speeds, based on the type of game. For games where you take turns, such as casino or chess, turn-based role-playing games and social media games, you generally do not need a high-speed connection. Real-time games require a faster, low-latency connection for smooth, real-time gameplay. The Hughesnet Fusion plan blends satellite and wireless technology to create a multipath connection with reduced latency. See if Hughesnet® Fusion is available in your area. 

Hughesnet: Reliable Internet for Rural Areas

Hughesnet is a leading provider of satellite internet. We specialize in providing internet for rural areas that cable and fiber optic internet providers underserve. Hughesnet internet plans include a range of speed tiers: 

• Lite plans offer speeds up to 25 Mbps.
• Select plans offer speeds of up to 50 Mbps.
• Elite plans provide download speeds up to 100 Mbps.
• Fusion plans combine satellite and wireless technology for speeds up to 100 Mbps and a more responsive internet experience. 

Hughesnet plans include: 

• Faster Speeds: Satellite internet plans with speeds up to 100 Mbps.*
• Unlimited Data: All plans include unlimited data,** so you can do more of what you love online.
• Whole Home Wi-Fi: All plans include built-in Wi-Fi. Add Mesh Wi-Fi Nodes to eliminate dead zones.
• Reduced Latency: The Fusion plan combines satellite and wireless technologies for a more responsive internet experience. Check for availability!
• Available Where You Live: Even in places that are beyond the reach of cable and fiber.
• Free professional installation: Leave the installation to the pros! Your satellite dish installation will be carried out by a Hughesnet professional technician.
• 24/7 customer support: Every install is backed by our trusted customer support team. 

Hughesnet offers flexible service plans to suit your usage needs. Explore our home satellite internet plans today to find one that matches your online needs!