How It Works

SamKnows is working with hardware manufacturers around the world to embed our Intelligent CPE software into as many devices as possible. This has been the goal of SamKnows from the very start, to give consumers the tools they need to measure the performance of their internet connection, both that provided by their ISP and within the home. To do this we rely upon forward-thinking ISPs and hardware manufacturers to embed our software directly into their equipment. To date we have partnered with a number of router manufacturers. Please watch this space as we continue to work with more manufacturers to make it possible for more ISPs and consumers to accurately measure the performance of their broadband.

Alternatively, the Whitebox software can run within the existing router/gateway. Speak to your ISP about compatible devices.

The Whitebox plugs into the home network, you simply connect it to your existing home router/gateway and plug any fixed connections into the Whitebox.

The Whitebox monitors your home network traffic levels to ensure that the tests only run when you are not using the internet. This is so that the results are accurate and that the tests do not disturb you, both of which are very important!

The Whitebox does not collect any personal information or take any data on what you’re actually doing online. We have strict policies about the data we collect – we will not collect any data without your permission and what’s more you can check what data we do collect through the reporting system. We only measure network performance.

The Whitebox runs a series of network performance tests against a schedule that has been designed to gather as much data as possible, without interrupting you use of your network or using a significant amount of your data allowance.

The Whitebox runs tests against popular websites and network test nodes that are provided by SamKnows (Off-Net) or your ISP (On-net), to give us a comprehensive view of your ISP’s performance.

The Whitebox then sends the results to our secure SamKnows reporting servers which then presents the results back to you either via your own web reporting site, smartphone app and monthly personalised ISP report card (for more information on these take a look at the section called reporting suite. By using this system, you’ll know about problems with your Internet connection even before your ISP. You can also send the data to your ISP to help them quickly identify and fix any issues.

ISPs that sign the Code of Conduct are given access to anonymised and aggregated performance results on their network so they can pro-actively deal with any network problems.