How to Use the Command 'networkQuality' (with Examples)

The networkQuality command is a part of Apple’s suite of network diagnostic tools designed to provide users with detailed insights into the quality of their internet connection. It is particularly useful for assessing how well different network interfaces perform, understanding the upload and download speed performance, and debugging network issues. By connecting to Apple’s servers, it delivers precise measurements and reports on various network quality metrics. This tool helps users ensure that their internet connection meets their needs for activities such as video streaming, video calls, and gaming.

Use case 1: Test the Network Quality for the Default Interface

Code:

networkQuality

Motivation:

Understanding the overall network performance is critical for daily activities that depend on internet connectivity, such as browsing, video conferencing, and media streaming. By using the networkQuality command without any additional arguments, users can quickly assess the general quality of their network. This default test provides a comprehensive overview of the connection without specific configurations, facilitating a straightforward performance check.

Explanation:

Running networkQuality without any arguments initiates a test on the primary or default network interface of the device. This is typically the most common setup for home and office environments where users want an overview of their network conditions. This command does not require any specific configurations, making it easy and convenient for users to check their network’s performance.

Example Output:

==== Summary ====
Upload capacity: 15.234 Mbps 
Download capacity: 46.573 Mbps 
Responsiveness: Low (150 RPM)

Use case 2: Test the Upload and Download Speeds Sequentially Instead of in Parallel

Code:

networkQuality -s

Motivation:

Sequential testing of upload and download speeds can be beneficial in understanding each aspect of network performance without interference from the other. In scenarios such as troubleshooting or optimizing network transmission during specific tasks (like large uploads or downloads), isolating these tests can provide more detailed insights.

Explanation:

The -s flag stands for “sequential,” which indicates that the command will test upload and download speeds one after the other rather than simultaneously, as it would do by default. This separate assessment can reveal specific issues that might not be diagnosed during parallel testing.

Example Output:

==== Sequential Test Summary ====
Upload capacity: 15.234 Mbps
Download capacity: 46.573 Mbps 
Responsiveness: Medium (345 RPM)

Use case 3: Test a Specified Network Interface

Code:

networkQuality -I en0

Motivation:

When a device has multiple network interfaces, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or virtual interfaces, it is essential to evaluate the performance of a particular interface to ensure optimal configuration and usage. This is crucial in environments where network troubleshooting or performance improvement for specific interfaces is necessary.

Explanation:

The -I option allows users to specify a particular network interface to test. en0 typically refers to the first Ethernet or Wi-Fi interface on a Mac device. This option is incredibly useful in complex network setups involving multiple interfaces, helping users target tests for specific connection types or hardware.

Example Output:

==== Test on Interface en0 ====
Upload capacity: 20.500 Mbps
Download capacity: 65.876 Mbps
Responsiveness: Low (120 RPM)

Use case 4: Test the Network Quality with Verbose Output

Code:

networkQuality -v

Motivation:

Verbose output provides a detailed log of each step taken during the network test process and can reveal underlying network behaviors not evident from summary outputs. It is especially useful for technical users or network administrators needing to understand finer-grained details of their network connections.

Explanation:

The -v flag stands for “verbose,” which increases the amount of detail shown in the output. This option allows users to access comprehensive information about the test process and results, making it beneficial for deep analysis and technical debugging.

Example Output:

==== Verbose Test Output ====
Start testing upload speed:
... Detailed connection logs ...
Upload capacity: 15.234 Mbps 

Start testing download speed:
... Detailed connection logs ...
Download capacity: 46.573 Mbps 

Detailed responsiveness metrics ...
Responsiveness: Low (150 RPM)

Conclusion

The networkQuality command serves as a powerful tool for users seeking to assess and optimize their network performance. With various options for detailed and specific interface testing, it facilitates a broad spectrum of diagnostic scenarios—from casual assessments to in-depth technical analysis. By leveraging its diverse use cases, users can ensure their network’s capability to meet everyday and specialized internet requirements.