How to prove your internet speed for a remote job
Many remote jobs ask for a speed test: a screenshot, a result link, or the company's own system check. Here is what they look for, how to get a result that reflects your real connection, and what to send.
What employers usually ask for
- Download and upload speed, in Mbps. Call centres and virtual-assistant agencies commonly ask for 10 to 25 Mbps down; some ask for 50. Upload matters for calls and video, usually 3 to 10 Mbps.
- Ping (latency), in milliseconds: how quickly your connection responds. Voice work often asks for under 100 ms; some ask for under 50.
- A wired connection. 19 of the 44 employers in our list require an Ethernet cable, and many rule out mobile hotspots, satellite and 5G home internet.
- A backup. Philippine VA agencies often ask for a second internet provider and backup power.
Look up a specific company's published numbers on the requirements list.
Getting a result that reflects your real connection
- Test where and how you will work: same room, same computer, same connection. If the job needs a cable, plug it in first.
- Pause everything else: downloads, streaming, other people's video calls, cloud backups.
- Test at the time you would work. Evening speeds in busy areas can be much lower than mornings.
- Run it twice, on different days if you can. Two good results are more convincing than one.
Screenshot or verified link?
Employers know screenshots can be edited, and free tools produce real-looking speedtest.net result links with any numbers typed in. That is why some agencies now ask for the IP address in the screenshot, or run their own test on a video call. An honest applicant ends up doubted along with everyone else.
A Welp result link is measured by our server, not by your device, so it can't be inflated, and the page shows the date, the city it ran in and your internet provider. It can't be edited by anyone. If the employer asked for a screenshot, you can send both.
If you don't pass
- On WiFi? Try a cable, or move closer to the router. That alone often doubles the result.
- On a hotspot or mobile data? Many employers won't accept it at any speed; a fixed line is usually required.
- Low upload? Ask your provider whether a different plan raises upload; fibre plans are often symmetric.
- High ping? Wired connections and fewer devices on the network help; distance to the server matters less.
Questions applicants ask
Is WiFi OK?
It depends on the employer. Many call centres say no. Tutoring platforms and most VA agencies allow it but recommend a cable. Check the company's own wording.
Does Starlink or 5G home internet count?
Some employers exclude satellite and cellular connections by name, whatever the speed. The Welp result page shows your provider, so be upfront about it.
What does the employer see on a Welp link?
Your speeds, latency, provider, device type, the date, and the city the test ran in. Never your exact location. Privacy.