BSNL Speed Test

This tool analyzes your BSNL broadband connection to verify if it is meeting the speed promised in your plan. BSNL operates two distinct networks: the legacy ADSL (Broadband) over copper telephone lines, and the modern Bharat Fiber (FTTH). Your speed test results will look very different depending on which technology reaches your home.

While Bharat Fiber is generally stable, we frequently observe performance issues caused by "FUP limits" (Fair Usage Policy) or low-quality generic routers (ONTs) often provided by local cable operators.

Understanding Your Speed Metrics

When evaluating your BSNL connection, focus on these three indicators:

Download Speed: This is how fast data reaches your device. On Bharat Fiber plans, this should be consistent. However, on older ADSL connections, speeds degrade significantly with distance from the telephone exchange.

Upload Speed: This is the main difference between BSNL's old and new networks. Bharat Fiber offers Symmetrical Speeds (Upload = Download). Legacy ADSL plans have extremely slow upload speeds (often under 1 Mbps), which causes lag in video calls.

Latency (Ping): BSNL routing can sometimes take longer paths to international servers. A good ping to a local Indian server should be under 40ms. If you see >100ms on a local server, it indicates a routing issue at the exchange.

What Results Should You Expect?

The "Generic Router" Factor

Unlike private ISPs, BSNL often uses third-party routers (ONTs) like Syrotech, Netlink, or Digisol. Wireless performance varies heavily based on these devices:

Download Speed: ~90% of plan speed (If using 5GHz Wi-Fi)

Upload Speed: ~90% of plan speed

Stability: Fiber connections should not fluctuate. ADSL connections often drop during rain or static noise on the line.

If you are on a 100 Mbps plan but your speed is stuck exactly at 2 Mbps or 4 Mbps, you have likely crossed your monthly data limit (FUP) and have been throttled.

Why Is Your BSNL Connection Slow?

Before raising a complaint, check these common issues specific to BSNL:

FUP Limit Reached: BSNL is strict about data quotas. Once you cross your limit (e.g., 3300GB), speed is automatically reduced to 2 Mbps or 4 Mbps until the next billing cycle.

LOS (Red Light): If the "PON" light is off and the "LOS" light is blinking red on your router, the fiber cable is cut. This is common in areas where overhead cables are used.

ADSL Noise: If you use the older copper connection, static noise on your landline phone will directly kill your internet speed.

2.4GHz Congestion: Many basic BSNL ONTs (Single Band) operate only on 2.4GHz, which cannot support speeds higher than 40-50 Mbps wirelessly, even if your plan is higher.

BSNL Technical Details

How to Get an Accurate Test

Because many BSNL users have entry-level routers with weak Wi-Fi, wireless tests are often inaccurate.

To confirm the actual speed coming from the exchange, connect a LAN cable directly from the BSNL ONT (Modem) to a laptop. This removes the Wi-Fi variable. If the wired speed is fine, the issue is your router, not the BSNL line.

When to Call Support

Contact your local exchange or LCO (Local Cable Operator) if you see:

LOS Red Light: A blinking red light means the physical cable is broken.

Dead Telephone: On ADSL, if the phone line is dead, the internet will not work.

Portal Error: If you are redirected to a BSNL payment or renewal page instead of browsing the web.

You can lodge complaints via the BSNL Selfcare App or by dialing 1500 from a BSNL landline (or 1800-345-1500 from mobile).