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Test server bandwidth

This guide explains how to install and use Speedtest CLI to measure your VPS bandwidth.

Prerequisites​

  • SSH root or sudo access

Installation​

  1. Remove old versions if present:

    sudo apt-get remove speedtest-cli speedtest

  2. Install curl if necessary:

    sudo apt-get install curl

  3. Install the latest version of Speedtest CLI:

    curl -s https://install.speedtest.net/app/cli/install.deb.sh | sudo bash
    sudo apt-get update
    sudo apt-get install speedtest

Usage​

  1. Basic test:

    speedtest

  2. Test with a specific server:

    speedtest -s 23282  # AS3215 Orange Lyon server

  3. Useful options:

    speedtest --help    # Display help
    speedtest -L        # List available servers
    speedtest -f csv    # Result in CSV format

Interpreting results​

The test displays:

  • Ping (latency in ms)
  • Download (download speed)
  • Upload (upload speed)
  • Jitter (latency variation)

Best practices​

  • Perform multiple tests at different times
  • Test with different servers
  • Avoid tests during peak load periods
  • Close bandwidth-consuming applications

Troubleshooting​

  • Check your network connection
  • Make sure no firewall is blocking the test
  • Check system logs if necessary