How to Improve Internet Stability for Video Conferences? (Checking Wi-Fi and Cable)

Introduction

Even if you have fast internet, video calls can freeze, drop, or "break up." The reason isn't speed, but connection instability: packet loss, delays, weak Wi-Fi, or network congestion. Let's explore how to step-by-step improve connection stability and make video conferences smooth.

Quick Stability Check

1. Open DoCam.io and check Ping, Jitter, and Packet Loss parameters.
2. If Ping is above 100ms or losses >2%, the connection is unstable.
3. Remember the result — below we'll explain how to improve it.

Main Causes of Unstable Connection

• Weak Wi-Fi signal (especially through walls or distant rooms);
• Network congestion — many connected devices;
• Damaged network cable or old router;
• Network card driver errors;
• Incorrect router settings (QoS, band, channel).

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Switch to Wired Connection

Wi-Fi is convenient but unstable. Ethernet cable connection gives 3-5 times less delays and losses.

Tip: use Cat5e or higher category cable and plug it directly into the router, bypassing adapters.

2. Optimize Wi-Fi if Cable is Impossible

• Move the router closer to your workspace.
• Use 5 GHz band — it's more stable and faster than 2.4 GHz.
• Change Wi-Fi channel (1, 6, or 11 — the clearest).
• Disable smart bulbs and IoT devices, they create interference.

3. Configure Traffic Priority (QoS)

Open router web interface (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) → QoS section. Add Zoom, Teams, Skype to the priority list. Now even during downloads and video streaming, the conference won't lag.

4. Check Drivers and Updates

• Open Device Manager → Network Adapters.
• Right-click → Update Driver.
• Check for Windows or macOS updates.

5. Check Cable and Connectors

Damaged Ethernet cable often causes internet "flickering." If router indicators periodically go out — replace the cable.

6. Disable Background Applications

• Torrent clients, Steam, Google Drive can "eat up" all bandwidth.
• During conferences, close everything that downloads or streams data.

Stable Connection Checklist

Conclusion

Main rule for stable internet: less Wi-Fi — more cable. Monitor Ping, Jitter, and Loss parameters — and video conferences will be smooth without "blocks."

Check your connection quality right now on DoCam.io.