Comprehensive Review of Internet Connection Monitor Chrome Extension
An In-Depth Analysis of Features, Performance, and User Experience
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Internet Connection Monitor Usage Instructions
Finding the Extension Icon
To locate the ICM extension icon, click on the puzzle icon to the right of the address bar and then pin Internet Connection Monitor. This is necessary because Google Chrome has changed how extensions are displayed.
Testing Connectivity
ICM tests connectivity using a combination of Chrome's internal API and pinging Google servers via HTTPS. This method ensures security without compromising user data. The testing interval is configurable, allowing users to check the connection every 1, 2, 3, or 5 seconds.
Internet Connection Monitor Product Review
User Feedback
Users have highly praised Internet Connection Monitor (ICM) for its effectiveness and simplicity. David Rhind appreciates the sound setting, which helps him identify connection dropouts promptly. Mike Stember finds the statistics graphics clear and useful for revealing ISP issues. Darien Young highlights the helpful sound indicator and user-friendly interface. Ananya Shamihoke finds ICM essential for monitoring her internet connection to ensure it meets her contract's service level.
Functionality
ICM is designed to record and analyze internet connection outages, display public IP, measure latency, and verify ISP or hardware issues. It offers precise connectivity tests with configurable intervals, real-time monitoring, and customizable icons and sounds. The extension also supports light and dark themes and provides an events log with CSV and PDF export capabilities.
Internet Connection Monitor Features
Core Features
Key features of ICM include precise connectivity testing, latency measurement, public IP display, and detection of internet issues even when LAN connections are operational. It also provides disconnects, availability, and downtime statistics, and can play sounds when the connection status changes.
New Features in ICM v5.2
Version 5.2 introduces several new features such as a public IP address display, an on/off switch for monitoring, sound themes, and a stats breakdown for different time periods. These additions enhance the user experience and provide more detailed insights into connection performance.
Internet Connection Monitor Common Issues and Problems
Offline Status Despite Connection
Some users have reported that ICM shows an offline status even when the internet is connected. This issue is typically caused by other extensions or software, such as antivirus programs or ad blockers, blocking ICM's monitoring. Detailed instructions on how to resolve this issue are available.
Compatibility and Sleep Mode
While ICM should work when the computer is in sleep mode, the accuracy of tracking disconnects during sleep has not been thoroughly tested. It is recommended to keep the computer running for precise measurements. Additionally, ICM is compatible with all Chromium-based browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Chromium.
Internet Connection Monitor Alternatives
Firefox Compatibility
Currently, ICM is only available for Chromium-based browsers. However, there is a feature request for a Firefox version, and users can vote for it to potentially expedite development.
Speed Testing
For internet speed measurements, users are directed to use 'Speedtest by Ookla', a separate tool from ICM. This highlights the need for users to use complementary tools to get a comprehensive view of their internet performance.