How to Change Speedtest.net Server (Stop Getting Seattle)
Frustrated by Speedtest.net always connecting to a Seattle server even though you're nowhere near Washington state? You're not alone. This common issue affects users worldwide and can severely skew your speed test results. Here's how to fix it and get more accurate readings.
Why Does Speedtest.net Keep Using Seattle Servers?
Speedtest.net (Ookla) uses an algorithm to automatically select what it believes is the optimal server for testing your connection. However, this algorithm sometimes defaults to servers in Seattle, Washington due to several factors:
- Internet routing - Your ISP might route traffic through Seattle-based infrastructure
- DNS configuration - Your DNS settings might direct to Seattle-based servers
- CDN distribution - Content delivery networks often have major nodes in Seattle
- Algorithm quirks - Speedtest's selection algorithm sometimes prioritizes certain server characteristics over physical proximity
This behavior creates a significant problem: testing against a server thousands of miles away gives inaccurate results. For accurate speed tests, you should ideally connect to a server within 300 miles (480 km) of your location.
How to Change the Speedtest Server (Desktop)
Follow these steps to manually select a server closer to your actual location on speedtest.net:
- Visit www.speedtest.net
- Look for the "Change Server" link near the center of the screen (below the GO button)
- A map will appear showing available servers in your region
- Click on a server closer to your physical location
- Alternatively, click "Show all servers" to see a complete list sorted by distance
- Select your preferred server and run the test
Pro tip: Choose a server hosted by your own ISP if available, as this will give you the most accurate representation of your connection to their network.
Changing Servers on the Speedtest Mobile App
The Speedtest mobile app also allows server selection. Here's how:
- Open the Speedtest app on your mobile device
- Tap on the "Servers" icon (it looks like a server rack) at the bottom of the screen
- You'll see a list of nearby servers sorted by distance
- Select your preferred server
- Return to the main screen and run your test
Why Server Location Matters for Speed Tests
Testing against a distant server like Seattle can negatively impact your results in several ways:
- Increased latency - The further the server, the higher the ping time
- More routing hops - Data travels through more network devices, increasing potential for congestion
- ISP peering differences - How your ISP connects to distant networks affects performance
- Regional congestion - Internet backbone traffic varies by region and time of day
These factors can result in speed tests that show significantly lower performance than you actually have available for local connections.
Making Your Speed Test More Accurate
Beyond changing the server, follow these best practices for accurate speed testing:
- Use a wired connection when possible (Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi)
- Close bandwidth-intensive applications and streaming services
- Test at different times of day to account for peak usage periods
- Run multiple tests and average the results
- Try multiple testing services like MyInternetSpeedTest, Fast.com, and others
Important: If you're testing to verify you're getting the speeds you pay for from your ISP, be sure to test against a server that accurately represents your connection quality. Using a distant server like Seattle when you're in Florida, for example, will not give you actionable data.
Alternative Speed Test Services
If you're consistently having issues with Speedtest.net's server selection, consider these alternatives:
- MyInternetSpeedTest - Our tool designed for server accuracy
- Fast.com - Netflix's speed test (focuses on download speed)
- Google Speed Test - Simply search "speed test" on Google
- Your ISP's speed test - Many providers offer their own testing tools
When to Contact Your ISP About Speed Issues
After running proper speed tests against appropriate servers, if you find your speeds are consistently below what you're paying for, it's time to contact your internet service provider. Before calling, gather this information:
- Screenshots or logs of multiple speed tests (with timestamps)
- Notes about which servers you tested against and why they're appropriate
- Details about your equipment (modem, router, etc.)
- Any pattern of speed issues (specific times of day, etc.)
Conclusion: Get More Accurate Test Results
Don't let Speedtest.net's Seattle server issue mislead you about your internet performance. By manually selecting an appropriate server, you'll get much more accurate results that truly reflect your connection quality.
Remember that the most meaningful speed test is one that measures your connection to services you actually use, within your region, at times when you typically use the internet.
For a hassle-free alternative speed test that prioritizes accuracy, try our MyInternetSpeedTest tool which is designed to select appropriate testing servers automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my speed test always use a Seattle server?
Speedtest.net's server selection algorithm sometimes defaults to Seattle-based servers due to internet routing configurations, DNS settings, or how the selection algorithm weighs different factors. This is a known issue that affects users worldwide, not just those near Seattle.
How do I force Speedtest.net to use a different server?
On the Speedtest.net website, click "Change Server" below the GO button. A map will appear showing available servers. Select one closer to your location. On the mobile app, tap the "Servers" icon at the bottom of the screen and select from the list of available servers sorted by distance.
Does server distance affect speed test results?
Yes, server distance significantly affects speed test results. Testing against a distant server increases latency, adds more routing hops, and can introduce additional congestion points. This typically results in lower measured speeds than you would get with a local server. For accurate results, choose a server within 300 miles (480 km) of your location.
What's the best Speedtest server to use?
The best server to use is typically one hosted by your own ISP and located geographically close to you. This gives you the most accurate measurement of your connection quality within your ISP's network. If your ISP doesn't host a server, choose the closest server with low ping (under 30ms ideally).