Comprehensive Guide to Internet Speeds: Megabits vs. Gigabits Explained
Megabits vs. Gigabits
How are broadband speeds measured?
Internet speeds are measured in bits per second (bps). One Kilobit travels at a speed of one thousand bits per second, one Megabit travels at a speed of one million bits per second, and one Gigabit travels at a speed of one billion bits per second.
What does Mbps mean?
Mbps stands for Megabit per second
What does G mean?
G stand for Gigabit (Gig) per second,
What's the difference between Megabits and Gigabits?
Both of these are units of measurement for digital information. One Megabit (1Mbps) travels at a speed of 1 million bits per second, and one Gig travels at a speed of 1 billion bits per second (1G). This means that one Giga is one thousand times faster than a Megabit.
How many Megabits in one Gig?
There are 1,000 Megabits in a Gig. The average internet speed is about 45 Mbps, meaning that one Gig is over 20 times faster than that!
What speed can I get with fiber?
Today’s fiber internet service can easily reach up to one Gig.
What Internet speed do I need?
Internet speed calulator:
500 Mbps download / 500 Mbps upload
Best for:
- Checking Email
- Basic surfing
- Scrolling social media
1Gig download / 1Gig upload
Best for:
- Streaming
- Faster upload of photos, videos and large file transfers
- Connected home gym equipment
2Gig download / 2Gig upload *where available
Best for:
- Live gaming
- Video conferencing
- HD & 4K video streaming
- Everything above!
What is the difference between upload speed & download speed?
Download speed is the rate at which you can receive information, and upload speed is the rate at which you can upload information. The current FCC definition for internet is a download speed for at least 100 Mbps and an upload speed of at least 25 Mbps. For more in-depth information on this topic, check out our blog posts here or here.
What's a good internet speed? What's a good download speed? What's a good upload speed?
The FCC states that a good internet speed for two devices is 12Mbps, and 25Mbps for four devices. It is best to get the download speed that best matches your needs as an Internet user. Check out the chart above, or click this link, to help you decide what that would be. A good upload speed is one that matches your download speed. Most companies offer a high download speed, but a much lower upload speed. SkyLine/SkyBest is proud to offer symmetrical speeds for all of our internet plans.
What are the different types of internet? What's best Dial-Up or Fiber?
Internet connection comes in a variety of technologies but these aren't all equal. Dial-up, DSL, Cable and Fiber are among the most common. Among these, fiber stands out as the most advanced, offering unparalleled speed and reliability. A dedicated fiber conneciton, like those provided by SkyLine/SkyBest, delivers consistent high-speed internet, making it superior to other technologies.
SkyBest is proud to offer Fiber internet at a variety of speeds to give you exactly what you need. Check out our internet packages, or give your internet a speed test. (Click here on how to perform the most accurate test.) If you have any questions about your internet or are interested in upgrading, you can check out our website at skybest.com or give us a call at 1-800-759-2226.
Have any SkyBest Business Internet Questions?
Check out our Business Help Topics for answers to any Frequently Asked Questions. If you can’t find the help you need, please reach out to us at 336-876-6231.
To learn more about SkyBest Business internet Solutions, click here.
