A system and method determines network configuration settings that provide optimal network performance for a user's computer (client machine). The computer is connected to a remote server via a network connection. A plurality of network configuration settings are selected for the computer. One or more performance tests using the selected network configuration settings are automatically conducted. An algorithm is used to determine the best network configuration settings and achieve the desired network performance characteristics for the computer based on preferences specified by the user. The network configuration settings of the computer are automatically adjusted based on the results of the performance tests. The user's computer can access network configuration setting recommendations from the remote server, based on network configuration settings and aggregate test results associated with other computers that previously were in communication with the remote server.