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BandBar | Menu Bar Speed Test
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is BandBar's number different from another speed test?
Method. BandBar times a single HTTP stream, while many tools open several connections in parallel and add the results together, which reads higher on a fast link. Neither figure is wrong, they measure different things. BandBar states its method so you know what you are comparing.
Where do the measurements come from?
Cloudflare's public speed test endpoint for download and upload. For latency, an HTTP HEAD request to 1.1.1.1, 8.8.8.8 and Cloudflare, reporting the fastest round trip.
Does BandBar keep a record of my tests?
Only while it is running. The last ten results sit in memory so you can compare them, and they are gone when you quit. Nothing you measure is written to disk.
Does it test continuously in the background?
No. A test runs only when you press Start Test. The connection details refresh on launch and when you press the refresh button.
What is the external IP address for?
It is shown to you as part of the connection details. It is read from 1.1.1.1/cdn-cgi/trace and is not sent anywhere or stored.
What macOS version is required?
BandBar requires macOS 13.0 (Ventura) or later. It runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel.
How do I quit BandBar?
Click the menu bar icon, then click the X in the top right corner of the popover.
Report a Bug
Found something wrong? Please contact us with a description of the issue, your Mac model, and OS version. Screenshots are very helpful.
Feature Requests
Have an idea for BandBar? We'd love to hear it. Contact us and tell us what you'd like to see. We read every message.
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