Orb: Measure Your Internet Connection
- experiencing sluggish online performance is a common frustration.
- Suttles, speaking with Techcrunch, described Orb as a proactive diagnostic tool.
- Unlike website-based speed tests, Orb is a downloadable application available for a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, linux, iOS, and Android.it also supports platforms like...
Orb Aims to Redefine Internet Speed Testing with Comprehensive App
experiencing sluggish online performance is a common frustration. While many turn to services like Speedtest or Downdetector to diagnose the issue, a new contender has emerged. Doug Suttles, former CEO of Ookla (the company behind Speedtest), and Jamie Steven have launched Orb, a platform designed to offer a more in-depth analysis of internet connectivity.
Orb: Beyond a Simple Speed Test
Suttles, speaking with Techcrunch, described Orb as a proactive diagnostic tool. “Speed tests are like the gauge of your car, which will tell you that you are short of oil once your car broke out.We wanted to build a dashboard to tell you that you lack oil, so that you can solve this problem,” he said.
Unlike website-based speed tests, Orb is a downloadable application available for a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, linux, iOS, and Android.it also supports platforms like Raspberry Pi and Steam Deck. Currently, Orb is offered as a free service, with the company exploring potential subscription models for professional users.

The Future of Internet Troubleshooting?
Orb distinguishes itself by continuously monitoring internet connection quality, unlike Speedtest’s snapshot approach. It analyzes reactivity (lag), reliability (packet loss, service interruptions), and speed (download and upload) over a user-defined period, without significantly impacting system performance.
The application synthesizes these metrics into a score,providing users with an easily understandable assessment of their connection. If the score falls below 80,Orb offers AI-generated recommendations to improve performance.Suttles emphasized the goal is to provide actionable insights,stating,”We wanted a dashboard that really explains to you what is wrong,not just a raw figure.” Future iterations of Orb will allow users to share their analysis with support technicians for streamlined troubleshooting.
Orb: Your New Internet Speed Detective? A Deep Dive into the App
What is orb?
Orb is a new internet connectivity analysis app developed by Doug Suttles, the former CEO of Ookla (the company behind Speedtest), and Jamie Steven. It aims to provide a more in-depth analysis of your internet connection than traditional speed tests.
How is orb Different from Speedtest?
Orb is designed to go beyond a simple speed test, offering a proactive diagnostic tool. According to Doug Suttles, “Speed tests are like the gauge of your car, which will tell you that you are short of oil once your car broke out. We wanted to build a dashboard to tell you that you lack oil so that you can solve this problem.” Unlike Speedtest, Orb continuously monitors your connection, analyzing various metrics.
What Does Orb Monitor?
Orb analyzes the following aspects of your internet connection:
- reactivity (Lag): Measures how quickly your connection responds.
- Reliability: Assesses packet loss and service interruptions.
- Speed: Monitors download and upload speeds.
What Operating Systems Does Orb Support?
Orb is a downloadable submission compatible with a wide range of operating systems:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
- Raspberry Pi
- Steam Deck
Is Orb Free to Use?
Yes, Orb is currently offered as a free service. The company is exploring potential subscription models for professional users,but the core functionality is available without charge.
How Does Orb Assess My Connection?
Orb synthesizes the collected metrics (lag, reliability, and speed) into a single score, making it easy for users to understand their connection quality.
What Happens If my Orb Score Is Low?
If your Orb score falls below 80, the application provides AI-generated recommendations to improve your internet performance.
Will Orb Help Me Troubleshoot Internet Issues?
Yes, Orb aims to provide actionable insights to help users solve their internet problems.According to Suttles, the goal is to provide a dashboard that “really explains to you what is wrong, not just a raw figure.” Future iterations will allow users to share their analysis with support technicians for streamlined troubleshooting.
what are the Key Advantages of Using Orb?
orb offers some key advantages over traditional speed tests. Here’s a summary:
| Feature | Orb | Traditional Speed Tests (e.g., Speedtest) |
|---|---|---|
| monitoring Approach | Continuous, proactive monitoring. | Snapshot approach (single point-in-time measurement). |
| Data Analysis | Analyzes lag, reliability, and speed. | Primarily focuses on download and upload speeds. |
| User Feedback | Provides an overall score and AI-generated recommendations. | Offers raw speed figures. |
| Troubleshooting | Aims to provide actionable insights for problem-solving. | Less emphasis on troubleshooting capabilities. |
