How-To Guides
Practical guides and tutorials for choosing, optimizing, and troubleshooting your internet.
Wi-Fi 7 Is Official: Do You Actually Need 46 Gbps Wireless?
The 802.11be standard is here with theoretical speeds up to 46 Gbps, MLO, 320 MHz channels, and 4096-QAM. Here's what's actually useful — and when to upgrade.
Working From Home? Here's the Internet Speed You Actually Need
With millions suddenly working from home, internet connections are being tested like never before. Here's how much bandwidth you really need for Zoom, Teams, and remote work.
WiFi 6: Should You Upgrade Your Router?
802.11ax routers are hitting shelves with promises of faster speeds and better performance in crowded homes. Here's whether WiFi 6 is worth the upgrade right now.
The Cord Cutter's Guide to Internet Speed
Thinking about dropping cable TV and going streaming-only? Here's how much internet speed your cord-cutting household actually needs.
4G LTE Is Here: Verizon vs AT&T Speed Showdown
Verizon's LTE network is delivering 10-30 Mbps in real-world tests — faster than most home DSL connections. AT&T is launching its own LTE. We tested both.
How Much Bandwidth Do You Really Need for Streaming?
Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube are eating bandwidth. Here's a practical guide to how much internet speed you actually need for smooth streaming in your household.
Making the Switch: Dial-Up to Broadband
Still on dial-up? Here's everything you need to know about upgrading to broadband internet in 2006, including how to compare DSL and cable options.
DSL vs Cable in 2003: Which Should You Choose?
DSL or cable internet? We break down pricing, speeds, the shared bandwidth myth, and which broadband option makes sense for your household.
Vonage and VoIP: Can You Really Replace Your Phone Line With Internet?
Vonage promises unlimited local and long-distance calling for $25/month over your broadband connection. We tested it to see if VoIP is ready for primetime.
Wi-Fi Goes Mainstream: Setting Up Your First Wireless Network
802.11b wireless routers from Linksys and Netgear are dropping below $150. Here's how to cut the cord and set up Wi-Fi in your home.
First Look: Real-World Broadband Speed Tests in 2000
We tested DSL, cable, and dial-up connections head-to-head with real downloads. The results might surprise you — or confirm your suspicions.