iPerf is an open-source throughput test that runs by connecting to an iPerf server. Unlike Speedtest where the test automatically chooses a Speedtest server to connect to, an iPerf server must be specified by the user when creating the test. Network Administrators typically use iPerf to test the throughput of their internal network - not having the test run out to an internet server. This allows you to benchmark the performance of your network without the internet being a factor.
Running an iPerf test requires you to have an existing iPerf server running in your network. There are several guides to installing and running your own iPerf server available on the internet. If you aren’t able to run your own server, you can dedicate a Wyebot sensor to act as an iPerf server. When no tests are configured on a Wyebot sensor, it will automatically listen for incoming iPerf requests on its wired IP address.
Sensors can also be dedicated as an iPerf server through the test configuration. When this option is used all network tests will be automatically disabled for the target sensor. When sensors are operating as an iPerf server, they cannot be used in other network tests.
¶ Configurable Test Parameters
iPerf Server
- Use my own server - specify the hostname/IP address of your server
- Select a Wyebot sensor - dedicate a Wyebot sensor as the server
iPerf Version - select the version that matches your server
Port - Define the port your iPerf server is listening on. Only available if Using your own server.
Duration - how long to send data for (combined upstream and downstream)
Minimum upload speed - if upload throughput is below this value, the test is marked as failed
Minimum download speed - if download throughput is below this value, the test is marked as failed
If minimum upload/download values are not specified, the test will not be marked as failed as long as the iPerf test completes successfully.
¶ Supported Interfaces
Wireless and Wired
¶ Supported Wireless Options
Auto - The sensor will connect to the closest AP based on current RF environment
Specific AP - The sensor will connect to the user-specified radio of an AP
Band Restriction - The sensor will connect to the strongest AP on specified frequency band
¶ Firewall Requirements
Only needed for external iPerf servers.
| iPerf Version | Protocol | Port | Hosts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | TCP | Defined by test config | Defined by test config |
| 3 | TCP | Defined by test config | Defined by test config |
¶ Using Your Own iPerf Server
In order to run your own iPerf server on a local machine, you should download the iPerf software from any of the various different iPerf libraries such as https://downloads.es.net/pub/iperf/. Once downloaded, you will need to open the zip file/tar file to a directory designated as your iPerf directory using the tar command or your favorite Zip utility. Once decompressed, change your current directory to the iperf directory you created during the unzip procedure and then launch the iperf server command with the syntax of iperf2 -s or iperf3 -s depending on which version you have chosen. Your server should now be in listening mode and available to be used as your server as shown below.
