Download Speed vs Upload Speed
Download speed is how fast this device receives test bytes. Upload speed is how fast it sends them. Streaming mostly needs download; meetings and cameras need upload too.
Asymmetry
A 500/20 plan is not “500 Mbps internet” for a live stream. Read both numbers.
How we measure
Download times an HTTP GET of a known size. Upload times a generated POST and checks the server byte count.
Units
Both are decimal megabits per second here (Mbps), not megabytes per second (MB/s).
Frequently asked questions
Which one should be higher?
Consumer plans usually have higher download. That is a product choice, not a law of physics.
Why is upload lower on Wi‑Fi?
Some client radios and APs are weaker on uplink. Compare Ethernet.