Is My Ethernet Working?
Check if your wired ethernet connection is active, view connection type, estimated speed, and round-trip latency.
This test reads the Network Information API to determine if your active connection is wired ethernet, and reports the estimated downlink speed and round-trip time provided by the browser.
Cat5e ethernet supports up to 1 Gbps at 100 meters, while Cat6a reaches 10 Gbps — both deliver 0 ms jitter compared to WiFi's typical 1-5 ms jitter variation.
Network Information API is not supported. Try Chrome or Edge.
What Do Your Results Mean?
| Result | Range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Good | Connection type shows 'ethernet' with RTT below 50 ms | Your wired connection is active and performing well. Ethernet provides the most stable, lowest-latency connection for gaming, video calls, and large transfers. |
| Warning | Connection type shows 'wifi' despite cable being plugged in | Your system is using WiFi as the primary connection. Check network adapter priority in system settings and set ethernet to higher priority than WiFi. |
| Bad | No connection detected or connection type unknown | The ethernet cable may be unplugged, the port may be damaged, or network drivers are missing. Try a different cable, port, or check Device Manager for driver issues. |
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Test shows WiFi instead of ethernet with cable connected
Your OS may prioritize WiFi. On Windows, go to Network Connections > Advanced Settings and move Ethernet above Wi-Fi. On macOS, drag Ethernet above Wi-Fi in Network preferences service order.
Connection type shows 'unknown' or API not supported
The Network Information API requires Chrome or Edge. Safari and Firefox don't support connection type detection. Switch to a Chromium-based browser for full results.
Ethernet detected but speed estimate seems too low
The API reports estimated downlink based on recent network activity, not the physical link speed. Run the Internet Speed Test for actual throughput measurement.