Speed Test Methodology

Busuk uses the NDT7 protocol from M-Lab, a global testing platform run by Google, the New America Open Technology Institute, and Princeton University.

Why NDT7

NDT7 is an open-source, reproducible methodology. It uses TCP single-stream testing with congestion control feedback to measure end-to-end internet performance the way a real application would. Unlike some commercial tests, NDT7 doesn't optimize for the "best case" via parallel streams — it tests what your connection actually delivers.

What the test does

1. Connects your browser to the nearest M-Lab server via WebSocket.
2. Downloads data for ~10 seconds, measuring throughput and TCP info every 250ms.
3. Uploads data for ~10 seconds, same instrumentation.
4. Reports the median measurement, ignoring slow-start ramp-up periods.

Limitations

• Results depend on M-Lab server proximity. If the nearest server is geographically distant, latency rises.
• The test can't isolate ISP issues from local network issues (your WiFi, your router, your device).
• Mobile networks vary by tower load — re-running the test minutes apart can show different results.