Since its inception nearly two decades ago, Speedtest.net has been a go-to resource for measuring internet speeds. However, Doug Suttles, the founder and ex-CEO of Ookla (the company behind Speedtest), realised that assessing speed alone was insufficient for users seeking comprehensive insights into their internet connections. This led to the creation of a new tool, Orb, launched in 2023 in collaboration with Ookla executive Jamie Steven.
Orb provides a more thorough evaluation of internet performance by measuring four vital factors: latency, packet loss, jitter, and speed, giving users a better understanding of connection stability. Suttles compared traditional speed tests to a car dipstick that merely indicates when oil is low after a breakdown. Orb, on the other hand, is designed as a dashboard to signal when users are approaching network issues, allowing them to address problems proactively.
The new tool assesses three critical metrics: responsiveness, which combines lag, jitter, and packet loss; reliability, looking at responsiveness and packet loss over time; and, of course, speed, covering download and upload rates. Users receive a stable connection score ranging from 0 to 100, where scores above 80 indicate a good connection, 70-80 suggests an acceptable connection, and anything below 70 signals potential issues. In cases of low scores, Orb provides recommendations to enhance network performance, utilising large language models (LLMs) for insight and advice.
Orb’s applications span multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux, and it even offers installation guides for devices like Raspberry Pi and Steam Deck, catering to those who desire frequent network monitoring. A forthcoming feature will enable users to share an Orb setup for mutual monitoring, providing alerts if connectivity quality dips.
Currently available for free, Orb aims to stay that way, with plans for licensing its technology to enterprises and internet service providers, allowing for improved network monitoring and analytics. The startup has secured $3.8 million in funding from various investors, including notable names from Fastly, Netflix, and Oculus Studios.
Additionally, Orb aspires to develop service-specific solutions that help users verify accessibility to platforms like Zoom or Netflix, ensuring they can readily determine service availability. Through Orb, Suttles envisions a shift towards a more proactive approach in internet connectivity management, moving beyond mere speed testing to ensure a smoother online experience.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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