How to test VPS network speed using the official Speedtest CLI

Updated 1 month ago

You can test your VPS network speed using the official Speedtest CLI by Ookla. This tool measures ping (latency), download speed, and upload speed directly from your server.

We recommend using the official Speedtest CLI instead of the older speedtest-cli Python script for more accurate and up-to-date results.

Install the official Speedtest CLI

Connect to your VPS via SSH or browser terminal.

On Ubuntu / Debian:

curl -s https://packagecloud.io/install/repositories/ookla/speedtest-cli/script.deb.sh | sudo bash

sudo apt install speedtest -y

On AlmaLinux / CentOS / RHEL

curl -s https://packagecloud.io/install/repositories/ookla/speedtest-cli/script.rpm.sh | sudo bash

sudo dnf install speedtest -y

If prompted, accept the license agreement.

Run the Speedtest

After installation, run:

speedtest

The tool will automatically select the closest server and display:

  • Ping (latency)
  • Download speed
  • Upload speed

Important Notes

  • Speed test results may vary depending on server load and routing.
  • Your VPS plan bandwidth limits still apply.
  • For more reliable results, run multiple tests at different times.