When users have a problem with their connection, the technical support will likely tell them to run a speed test, and the most popular tool for that is Speedtest by Ookla. The main issue with Speedtest is its dependence on Flash, but after a long wait, it has finally offered a beta version based on HTML5.
The Benchmark, Speed, and Flash
The concept of "benchmark" doesn't have the last word in determining the performance of hardware, software, or a service, but we still need an idea to compare and use as a reference. Internet connections are no exception, and one of the simplest tests a user can run is measuring speed. This is also useful in case of a technical failure, since a speed test implicitly includes stability (the fastest transfer is useless if the connection falls apart). Speedtest is the number one tool for checking upload and download parameters. This has led to some manipulations in results by certain providers (a process much simpler than it seems), though that's not exactly Speedtest's fault. The real asterisk in its record is its use of Flash.
Leaving Flash Behind
The Flash-based version of Speedtest has served us for a long time, but I think we all agree it's time to leave it behind. Flash is practically impossible to tolerate on modest systems, Linux users don't get along with the plugin, and its security problems are a prime target for malware developers. Fortunately, Ookla decided to follow the trend of abandoning Flash and opened access to a beta version of its tool based on HTML5. The test loads in seconds, and although its interface is a bit simpler, the data we need is there.
I hope this advance in favor of HTML5 allows Ookla to improve the Speedtest apps on mobile devices and across all compatible platforms. On the other hand, it would be interesting to see if Ookla finds with this new version a way to make its test more resistant to provider modifications. If you notice it takes a while to load, be patient. There are many requests.
