Orb App: Internet Connection Insights from Ookla Founder

A New Approach to Internet Connection Assessment: Introducing Orb

For almost two decades, Speedtest.net has been a leading resource for gauging internet speeds. However, Doug Suttles, the founder and previous CEO of Ookla – the company responsible for Speedtest – recognized that simply measuring speed doesn't provide a complete understanding of internet connection quality.

Consequently, Suttles is unveiling a novel tool named Orb. This application goes beyond speed testing, evaluating latency, packet loss, jitter, and speed to determine the overall stability of your internet connection.

The Evolution from Speedtest

Orb was initiated in 2023 by Suttles alongside Ookla executive Jamie Steven. Suttles explained that while Speedtest.net was appropriate for its time, evolving internet landscapes necessitate more comprehensive assessment methods.

He likened traditional speed tests to a car's dipstick, only revealing a problem after a breakdown. Orb, in contrast, aims to function as a dashboard, proactively alerting users to potential issues before they escalate.

Key Metrics and Scoring

Orb analyzes network connections based on three core variables. These include responsiveness – assessed through lag, jitter, latency, and packet loss – reliability, measured over time, and standard speed (download and upload rates).

Measurements can be taken across various timeframes: one minute, five minutes, one hour, and 24 hours. The tool then synthesizes these variables into a single score reflecting network connection stability.

An Orb score exceeding 80 signifies a strong connection. Scores between 70 and 80 indicate an acceptable connection, while scores below 70 suggest potential performance issues.

Troubleshooting and AI-Powered Suggestions

If a user’s score falls below 80, the application provides tailored recommendations for network improvement. The startup leverages Large Language Models (LLMs) to deliver clear explanations of identified problems and corresponding solutions.

Platform Compatibility and Remote Monitoring

Orb offers applications for a wide range of operating systems, including iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux. Installation guides are also available for Raspberry Pi, Onewrt, Docker, Steam Deck, and other platforms.

Currently in development is a feature enabling users to share their Orb setup with others for remote connection monitoring. Both users will receive alerts if connection quality deteriorates.

Business Model and Funding

Orb is presently available for free, and the company intends to maintain this accessibility. Suttles envisions licensing the technology to enterprises and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for advanced network monitoring and issue identification.

To date, the startup has secured $3.8 million in funding from Sidekick Ventures and a group of individual investors. These include Edward Bender of Fastly, Jana Iyengar of Netflix, Tom Daly of Big Network, Lee Chen (formerly of Fastly), Jason Kay of Oculus Studios, Jason Rubin (THQ founder and Naughty Dog founder), and Will Cooper of Vetro.

Future Development: Service-Specific Testing

Jamie Steven, also a creator of Down Detector, stated that Orb aims to incorporate “recipes” for various online services. These recipes will help users determine if access issues stem from their connection or from the service itself (e.g., Zoom, Netflix, X, Google Drive).