Why Does Video Freeze and Pixelate During Calls?

Introduction

Does your video break into pixels during calls, audio lags, and video freezes? These symptoms indicate problems with internet speed or connection stability. Let's explore the main causes and simple solutions.

Main Causes of Pixelation and Freezing

  • Unstable Wi-Fi signal — especially through multiple walls.
  • Low upload speed — insufficient outgoing traffic for video.
  • High ping or jitter — severe delays and connection spikes.
  • Network congestion — someone at home downloading files or streaming Netflix.
  • ISP limitations (QoS, peak load).

Quick Solution

  1. Connect to the router via cable (LAN) — this eliminates most lags.
  2. Close background apps using the internet (torrents, streams).
  3. Check speed on Speedtest.net.
  4. If upload is less than 3 Mbps — video will pixelate.
  5. Check connection quality on DoCam.io.

What "Breaking Into Pixels" Means

This is what packet loss looks like. When part of the data doesn't reach the recipient, the app tries to restore video by replacing missing frames with "blocks". Causes — Wi-Fi overload, interference, weak signal, or slow router.

Example: Packet Loss 5% — noticeable pixelation and video lag

How to Check Connection Stability

  1. Run a test on DoCam.io — the service will show ping, jitter, and packet loss.
  2. For stable video:
    • Ping — no higher than 80 ms;
    • Jitter — no higher than 20 ms;
    • Packet Loss — 0–1%.

How to Improve Video Quality

1. Wired Connection

Wired connection (Ethernet) is 2–3 times more stable than Wi-Fi. Even an inexpensive cable will eliminate delays and pixelation.

2. Wi-Fi Optimization

  • Place the router closer to your workspace.
  • Switch to the 5 GHz band.
  • Change the Wi-Fi channel (1, 6, or 11 — the least congested).

3. Traffic Priority Setting (QoS)

In the router interface, you can enable QoS and prioritize Zoom, Teams, Skype — giving them a "green corridor".

4. Driver and OS Check

  • Update network drivers (Realtek, Intel Wi-Fi).
  • Check for Windows updates.

Additional Tips

  • Disable VPN and proxy — they often cause delays.
  • Don't run multiple video calls simultaneously.
  • Lower video quality in the app (720p instead of 1080p).
  • If the problem persists — restart the router and check the cable.

Conclusion

Pixelation occurs due to packet loss and weak signal. Use a wired connection, update drivers, and monitor network stability — and video calls will become clear and stable.

Check your connection quality right now on DoCam.io.