Data transfer rate measures how fast data moves through a network or connection. Measured in bits per second (bps), from dial-up speeds to fiber optic gigabits.
Bits vs Bytes
Network speeds use bits (b), while file sizes use bytes (B). 1 byte = 8 bits. A 100 Mbps connection transfers data at 12.5 MB/s (100 ÷ 8). This is why a 1 GB file takes ~80 seconds on a 100 Mbps line, not 10 seconds.
Speed Tiers
- Dial-up: 56 Kbps
- Basic broadband: 10–25 Mbps
- Standard broadband: 100–200 Mbps
- Fiber: 1–10 Gbps
Conversions
- 1 Gbps = 1,000 Mbps
- 1 Mbps = 1,000 Kbps
- 1 Mbps = 125 KB/s (divide by 8)
Try the Data Transfer Rate Converter
Convert between all data transfer rate units instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my download speed slower than my internet plan?
Plans use Mbps (megabits), downloads show MB/s (megabytes). 1 byte = 8 bits. A 100 Mbps plan = 12.5 MB/s actual download speed.