SamKnows Speed Test - Broadband Measurement
Test your SamKnows internet speed in United Kingdom
www.samknows.comSamKnows is a broadband performance measurement platform used by regulators including Ofcom to monitor ISP performance across the UK. Acquired by Cisco, SamKnows provides the methodology behind official broadband speed reports. Test your connection speed and compare results against national benchmarks.
About SamKnows
SamKnows, founded in 2008 and headquartered in London, is a broadband performance measurement company acquired by Cisco Systems. SamKnows provides the testing infrastructure used by government regulators worldwide including Ofcom (UK), FCC (US), and ACCC (Australia) to measure real-world broadband performance.
The company deploys hardware probes (Whiteboxes) in volunteers' homes that continuously measure ISP speed, latency, and reliability. SamKnows data powers the Ofcom UK Home Broadband Performance report.
SamKnows Plans and Services
SamKnows offers several internet plans across different technologies and price points.
SamKnows does not sell internet service. Instead, the company provides broadband measurement technology. SamKnows One is a consumer speed testing app.
SamKnows Whiteboxes are hardware probes placed in homes for continuous monitoring. SamKnows data feeds regulatory reports that hold ISPs accountable for advertised speeds. The platform measures download, upload, latency, packet loss, and DNS performance across ISPs.
Test Your SamKnows Speed
Run a free speed test to check if SamKnows delivers the speeds you are paying for. Test during peak evening hours for the most realistic results. Compare your results against SamKnows advertised speeds above.
SamKnows Speed Test FAQ
What is SamKnows?
SamKnows is a broadband measurement platform, not an internet service provider. The company provides the testing infrastructure used by regulators like Ofcom, FCC, and ACCC to measure real-world ISP performance. SamKnows deploys hardware probes in homes that continuously test broadband quality. The data powers official government reports on broadband performance and helps hold ISPs accountable for advertised speeds.
How does SamKnows measure speed?
SamKnows uses dedicated hardware probes called Whiteboxes connected to home routers. These devices run automated tests throughout the day measuring download speed, upload speed, latency, packet loss, DNS resolution, and web browsing performance. Tests run during both peak and off-peak hours. The methodology provides more accurate results than browser-based speed tests since the Whitebox eliminates device and WiFi variability.
Can I join the SamKnows panel?
Yes, SamKnows periodically recruits volunteers to host Whiteboxes in their homes. Volunteers receive a free hardware probe that connects to their router and runs automated tests. The collected data contributes to Ofcom broadband performance reports. Check samknows.com for current recruitment opportunities. Participation is free and the Whitebox does not affect your internet speed.
Is SamKnows owned by Cisco?
Yes, SamKnows was acquired by Cisco Systems. The acquisition brought SamKnows' broadband measurement expertise under Cisco's networking portfolio. SamKnows continues to operate independently, providing broadband measurement services to regulators and ISPs worldwide. The Cisco acquisition expanded SamKnows' ability to measure network performance at scale.