OTTAWA – The Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) is asking Canadians to use its new performance test to see how their Internet connections measure up, and the results may be used to address the digital divide in Canada.
The organization, which manages the .CA domain, released the .CA Internet Performance Test Tuesday which it says is designed to show users their speed and performance in real network conditions, including network congestion and complex global data routes. Many other tests compensate for these realities, showing only the best-case scenario for a given connection, it said.
The test is made up of test servers located at various Internet exchange points in Toronto, Montreal and Calgary that CIRA described as critical hubs for the Canadian Internet and important for the efficient and fast transfer of data securely within Canada’s borders.
As each user performs a test, data is anonymously collected and aggregated into a national dataset that will enable researchers to understand the capabilities of Canada’s Internet infrastructure, while also allowing Canadians to compare their connection speeds with others. In addition to highlighting potential linkages between demography, geography, economics, and Internet performance, the test will provide information to consumers, Internet service providers, network administrators, and regulators about how the Internet in Canada performs, and details that can help improve the Internet experience.
“Internet speed and performance is a critical component of Canada’s national competitiveness”, said Jacques Latour, chief technology officer at CIRA, in the news release. “This test will help Canadian families ensure they are getting the speed they expect, help IT managers ensure their connections are properly configured, and help policy makers and researchers understand new emerging digital divides.”
