The speed in which a computer connects to the Internet can vary because of many factors, so the speed that the ISP posts gives an average or a range that a user can expect when connecting. Many sites offer free speed testing. One of the easiest to use is Speakeasy because there is no software to download or install.

Instructions
Click on the Internet Explorer icon on the computer's desktop or the taskbar.

Enter the URL "www.speakeasy.net/speedtest" in the Internet browser address box.

Choose a server from the list that is provided to start the testing process.

Read the results that will be provided when the test is complete at the bottom of the graph near the bottom of the page.

Consider running the test a couple of times to get a better reading of the average speed of the computer's Internet connection.