Ookla speed test results indicate I am on the Virgin Plus Network

[Aptic]

I typically use Ookla to run a speed test and it tells me I am on the Bell Network.  Today I ran a speedtest, and it says I am on the Virgin Plus Network.  I have never seen this before.  Can someone explain what is happening?

[BellPatricia]

Hey there @Aptic 

Thanks for your post, and great question!

At the time you ran your speed test, were you connected through a VPN? If you run another test today, do the results still show Bell, or do they show Virgin Plus?

What you're seeing is likely just how Ookla identifies the ISP associated with a particular IP address range in its database. In some cases, a third-party speed test service may identify an IP address range differently, even though the services/provider has not changed.

@BellPatricia 

[Vanadiel]

Your IP address will be listed below it.

It's possible the IP was identified incorrectly, but it's also possible if performed from a phone you were not connected to WiFi but instead to the cell tower signal.

It's also possible you ran it using a VPN.

Best check is to lookup the IP address using an external lookup: external lookup 

[Aptic · Accepted solution]

We had a major storm go through my area and there was damage.  Bell apparently routed my neighbourhood to their 'sister carrier' to maintain our service.  I am back on the Bell network now, same IP.

Though I don't really understand the explanation, as its my understanding they share the same network and infrastructure.