Technology
Does your ISP pass the speed test?
The Internet is an essential part of our daily activities, at home and at work. As a result, the performance of your Internet connection can significantly affect productivity and impact leisure activities such as streaming movies and music. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are inclined to make claims about upload and download speeds when consumers and/or businesses sign up for a service, nevertheless in many instances, users make use of ‘speed tests’ to check or validate these claims.
Through the help of a browser-based speed test, individuals can determine the connection speeds, as well as identify other issues with your network such as latency issues, or physical connection problems. But do these speed tests provide internet users with an accurate reading?
What impacts a speed test?
The speed that ISPs promise should be the speed customers receive and a speed test is one way to see if the individual is getting what they pay for. However, there are a number of factors which could negatively impact the results you get from a speed test, leaving you thinking you’re not getting the speed you were promised when, in fact, you may very well be.
When doing a speed test, it is important to ensure that no one that has access to the network is actively using the service, or the results will be impacted. For instance, if someone is streaming internet television, or a colleague is downloading a large file, for example, the test results won’t be accurate and will show a lesser speed. If possible, one should do the test when they are positive no one else is using the network at the same time.
Similarly, if the service is highly contended (shared with other users), peak use times can also impact speed. A high contention ratio means that an accurate speed test reading is unlikely unless you are the only person currently using the service. People need to start considering the terms and conditions of the service they choose to make sure that the contention ratio does not impact the speed and performance of the service.
Speed test results can also be swayed by the confines of consumer’s own hardware. If a service is offering a higher speed than the hardware is capable of handling, one will only see the speed of the device and not of the actual network, or service. For example, if your Wi-Fi router is only capable of delivering a 5Mbps connection but you are paying for a 10Mbps service, you will only see a speed of 5Mbps, as the connection will bottleneck at the Wi-Fi router. It is important to make sure the hardware can support the speed of the service.
Finally, the type of speed test chosen also plays a significant part in the results achieved. A speed test that is offered by a small, independent ISP is generally reliant on its own network to provide results, therefore it is limited by its own network as well. Add to this that if a lot of people are doing speed tests at the same time, the servers may not be as responsive and may provide you with slower results and, therefore, slower speeds. For example, if a speed test server only has capacity for 20 simultaneous tests, but 50 people decide to do a speed test at the same time, your results will not be accurate.
So how do I use a speed test for best accuracy?
Users should consider speed tests that offer multiple test server locations, more detailed connection information, comparison tools, and well-designed user interfaces. Usually, speed tests that are carrier neutral provide the most accurate results.
It is also important that users conduct multiple tests and draw an average from them. As mentioned above, factors such as the number of users or simultaneous testers at any given time, plus the impact of traffic on the speed testers own network, can provide individuals with inaccurate results. An average drawn from multiple tests are more likely to show accurate results.
Don’t be afraid to challenge your service provider. Once the speed test has been taken and the results to not match up with the T&C’s in the contract, contact them. However, it is recommended that you conduct multiple speed tests from a number of reputable carrier neutral speed test sites to get an average. If the speeds are still not amounting to what is paid for, have an honest chat with your ISP. It may be time for a change.
Source:bizcommunity
LG Showcase MEA 2024 today welcomed guests and partners in Abu Dhabi to in-person experience the latest and greatest the brand has to offer. The two-day event held at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE had over 500 guests who witnessed all of LG Electronics’ new innovations that will be rolled out in the region. The LG Showcase, returning after a successful event last year, will create a common platform for experiencing LG Electronics’ unique customer-focused innovations and reaffirm the company’s vision to bring innovative products to the market that enhance the customer’s overall experience. The event revolved around the theme of Reinventing Together, which expresses the brand’s commitment and passion toward its customers and their requirements.
Mr. Il Hwan Lee, Chief Executive Officer, LG Middle East & Africa (MEA) Region said: “We saw a huge success when we returned to the LG Showcase MEA event last year and we are elated to see the same success in today’s event as well. It is a great pleasure to showcase our latest innovations and give our guests the chance to experience them all firsthand. We are happy to see the love and appreciation received for each product and look forward to bringing more to this region overall.” He further added, “This event is a platform that showcases not just our products, but also reiterates our commitment to our customers. This event also serves as a platform for networking with our business partners and fostering relationships, another vital element of our work.”
The large-scale event was also home to multiple exhibition zones, where LG Electronics’ products were displayed in their ideal use-case scenario. This included a hero zone with the 97-inch LG SIGNATURE WIRELESS OLED M, the world’s-first consumer TV with Zero Connect technology which enables the transfer of 4K video and audio, wirelessly at 120Hz. Also, on display was LG’s innovative StanbyME Go, the 27-inch FHD smart screen that comes in a carry bag design and a three-hour battery built in that allows for the ultimate in portability and making it a perfect companion for outdoor use, such as picnics and BBQs.
The event highlighted the latest in LG Electronics’ innovation in processors and software with the new α (Alpha )11 processor that will be used in its flagship TVs and the latest WebOS respectively. The α (Alpha )11 processor will be actively used in flagship TVs for powerful AI features that enhance the viewing experience, while the new WebOS brings a revamped home screen with wider title cards and smoother tiles. The new WebOS will expand into 300 TV brands and 3,500 content partners, including local partners and has an active user growth increase in the MEA region by 20 times.
A dedicated zone for audio visual products was also present, including the latest in XBOOM speakers which deliver bold and loud sounds with strong bass. This included the LG XBOOM XL9T, the most powerful-in-class party speaker, its smaller variant, the LG XBOOM XL5S with a 200W output, topped off with a dynamic pixel lighting effect that offers animation patterns, visual EQ or even characters, making it the perfect accessory for hanging out with friends or a must-have at parties.
The exhibition zone also included an area for home appliances, including washing machines and air conditioning solutions as well as the brand’s premium built-in solutions. Featured in this zone was the MoodUP™ refrigerator, which adds a unique personality to any home kitchen with the ultimate in customization by allowing users to choose from 22 colors for the upper door panel and 19 colors for the lower panel. Also, on display was the LG built-in-kitchen package, a unique lineup that comprises of an InstaView™ oven, QuadWash™ dishwasher, bottom-freezer refrigerator and microwave oven, making it easier for customers to build an all-inclusive experience powered by LG Electronics.
On display was also its Residential Air Conditioning units, such as the ARTCOOL lineup which features the LG DUAL Inverter Compressor™, a critical element that brings powerful cooling without affecting efficiency. Also, on display was LG’s new WashTower™ Compact laundry solution, which focuses on efficiency and space by combining both a washer and dryer with an all-in-one control panel and advanced AI in a single unit with a capacity of 13 kilograms for the washer and 10-kilogram capacity for the dryer.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Hyoungsub Ji, Managing Director, LG Electronics West Africa Operations said, LG is committed to bringing the latest innovations and cutting-edge technology to the West African market. “Our showcase highlighted our newest products and solutions, which will soon be available in the region. We are dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through our expanded retail presence, improved after-sales service, and engaging brand activations.”
On LG CSR activities, he said LG is passionate about empowering the local community through CSR initiatives, focusing on providing water to as many communities in Nigeria every month. LG Electronics also set up Life Style zones, with a range of products appropriate for them. This included the ThinQ powered home setup, an elegant café setup as well as a camping setup.
Fawry, the leading company in the field of banking technology and electronic payments, announced the signing of a joint cooperation memorandum with “Roboost“, a leader in developing delivery and logistics management systems, to automate payroll for home delivery couriers. The cooperation enhances the efforts of the digital transformation process and achieves the principles of financial inclusion in the delivery industry. The memorandum was signed in the presence of Mr. Hossam Ezz, CEO of the Commercial Sector at Fawry, and Mr. Mohamed Gessraha, CEO and Co-Founder of Roboost.
Within the framework of this joint cooperation, Fawry will provide delivery employees with myfawry yellowcards for convenient salary cashouts and empowering couriers with greater financial flexibility and control over their earnings, according to Roboost’s advanced solutions that manage the payroll data of more than 20,000 employees, based on detailed criteria, ensuring fair compensation based on specific aspects and eliminating the need for lengthy discussions with accounting teams.
The collaboration also saves accounting teams countless hours in payroll calculations and aims to optimize the payment and benefits system for couriers. In addition, Fawry will provide comprehensive medical insurance services for delivery employees, which confirms the company’s commitment to prioritize the welfare and retention of the courier workforce, and will provide all means of support to them in order to enhance the delivery industry.
The partnership between Fawry and Roboost represents an innovative step towards improving the courier experience and operational efficiency in the delivery industry. In addition, it contributes in achieving an unparalleled delivery experience for end users , and improving retention rates of delivery employees within companies. With a shared commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, the partnership between Fawry and Roboost is poised to reshape the future of payroll management for home delivery couriers.
Mr. Sherif Aboshady, the SMEs Director at “Fawry”, said: “We are pleased with this partnership with “Roboost”, and are excited to work together to bring about a comprehensive change in delivery operations management systems.”
He added: At “Fawry”, we have a clear desire to target all sectors to benefit from Fawry’s advanced financial technology, and this will help these sectors keep pace with the fast-paced wheel of digital transformation, especially with the directives of the Egyptian state and Egypt’s Vision 2030.”
Mr. Mohamed Gessraha, CEO and Co-Founder of “Roboost” said: “Cooperation with Fawry, the first provider of financial technology services in Egypt, represents an important step in Roboost’s journey to automate all home delivery operations. This partnership will also greatly empower couriers in particular, which will lead to an improved overall customer experience.”
By Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO, Bank of Kigali and Dr. Reda Helal, Group Managing Director – Processing, Africa and Co-Head Group Processing, Network International (Image: Supplied).
One of the visible signs of a growing digital economy is its flourishing initiatives for financial inclusion and financial literacy. Rwanda recognizes financial inclusion as a crucial component for realizing its development and economic prosperity and is a remarkable example of a country that is introducing such programs to aid in setting up a vast digital economy, which are increasingly gaining international recognition. The country has set an ambitious target to achieve 90% formal financial inclusion by 2024.
Building inclusivity by involving microfinance institutions, savings and credit cooperatives, and mobile network operators, as well as enabling interoperability in digital payments, play a critical role in ensuring accessibility for populations that have historically been unbanked and rely on cash-based transactions.
Digital transformation
Traditionally, Banks and FIs feel enormous pressure to grow their digital payments penetration in a landscape that is radically different from even five years ago. This pressure is accentuated when Fintechs and wallet operators are added to the mix. Everything from regulatory requirements, a competitive landscape and consumer expectations to product innovations has upended the “business as usual” outlook for digital payment providers. The industry is fraught with challenges that payments leaders must carefully navigate.
Financial institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of digital transformation and access to data. A legislation on the protection of personal data and privacy that was passed in October 2021 serves as a foundation for enabling trusted and secure domestic and international data flows and maximising the economic and social benefits of data-driven technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), for businesses and individuals in Rwanda.
The Bank of Kigali is an interesting example of a financial institution that has transitioned from traditional banking processes and payments to a structured digital platform. Embarking on a digital journey four years ago, the bank introduced several measures including internet banking and a mobile app, ISO standardization, and cyber resilient systems tuned to ensure the safety of customers’ data while enabling digital transactions through mobile phones.
Internet penetration in Rwanda stood at 30.5 percent of the total population in January 2023, with 4.25 million internet users. Incidentally, the ownership of smartphones in Rwanda stands at 26.7 per cent among men and 21 per cent in women respectively, according to the 2022 Rwanda Population and Housing Census, with the number of mobile phone users standing at 11.7 million in June 2023. Mobile phone penetration of 87 percent has consecutively increased the interest in digital payment solutions.
With the surge in mobile usage and e-commerce within the country, it is natural for banks to respond to the momentum and strengthen their digital economy payment services. The Bank of Kigali, for example, sought the advisory services of Network International (Network) to understand how to enhance and structure their product offering to cater to evolving customer behavior.
Network has been at the helm of accelerating digital transformation and has extensive experience in revolutionizing digital finance in the region with a deep understanding of digital payment offerings and technology usage. Network, using generational artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, as well as market knowledge and data utilization, helps the Bank generate informed business decisions to refine their services proposition in accordance with consumer spending trends.
Threat landscape
In a rapidly evolving digital payments landscape, the threat of fraud looms large. According to TransUnion Africa, digital transactions in financial services surged by 12.2 per cent during the first half of 2023, and the alleged rate of suspected digital fraud attempts for transactions from Rwanda in financial services increased 252 per cent year-over-year (YoY) – the highest rise among industries analyzed. The Rwanda Investigation Bureau reported 254 cases of cybercrime involving up to RWF 416 million in 2021. While fintechs and other new stakeholders in the environment pave the way to superior banking services, they also ensure to bolster their systems with strategic analysis and secure data management systems to counter sophisticated fraudulent activity.
In this regard, Network supported Bank of Kigali with an authorization strategy with detailed analysis focusing on authorization diagnostic, data and fraudulent transactions. Based on the findings of this analysis, Network provided recommendations to aid the Bank in improving operational efficiency, reducing risks, and accelerating growth.
Advanced tools and technology leave no room for error or vulnerabilities, in an environment that is seeing a growing dependence on mobile wallets, digital-only banking platforms, and contactless payments, which fosters adoption of digital payment solutions between merchants and consumers. This security allows for convenient access to digital payment services which include remittances, timely purchases, e-commerce and small businesses promotions, insurance payouts and more.
By enabling innovation and operational efficiency for financial institutions, Network International contributes to government-led financial inclusion initiatives and supports the sustainability of commerce among the masses.
-
Technology3 days agoFawry and Roboost sign “MOU” to enhance digital transformation and financial inclusion
-
Business Home2 days agoNBA Africa Launches Accelerator Focused on Early-Stage African Startups
-
Entertainment3 days agoUniversal Music France and Binetou Sylla partner to lead Def Jam Africa
-
Afripreneur2 days agoBukola Babajide On Empowering Women In The Tech Ecosystem
-
Technology18 hours agoLG Showcase MEA 2024 returns, showcasing all major product lineups