When data is sent across the Internet, it is sent in “packets”. These small chunks of data are sent from one end of the connection to the other, and in both directions.
Occasionally, a connection will experience issues with the packets being transported. In the case of “High Packet Loss and Low Latency”, some of those packets are not successfully reaching their destination, while the time it takes for successful packets to reach the destination is acceptable.
In typical packet loss scenarios, the cause of lost packets is due to network congestion. Modern networks are intelligent and, if too much congestion occurs, then some packets may be intentionally dropped in order to relieve this congestion. However, since not all packets are dropped, and since the successful packets will still take time to process, those processed packets are seen as “high latency”, since the duration from packet dispatch to packet process is above acceptable levels.
In cases where latency is low, an alternative cause of packet loss must be responsible.
Software Conditions
Keeping your devices updated to the latest operating system will ensure no bugs within your system will cause packet loss. Your device operating system is the first post in each packet's journey across the Internet. If your device is not operating optimally, then Internet connectivity may be affected.
View our device, headset, and software recommendations here.
Hardware Conditions
A faulty router, broken cabling, and other such hardware conditions can all lead to packet loss. Ensure your router is of good quality and that your cabling is short, well maintained, and is of the Cat 6 variety, as Cat 5 has lower limit capabilities.
Restarting your router or connected device may also improve connectivity.
Wifi Connectivity
If using wifi, consider switching to physically connected ethernet. Wifi is a less reliable technology than ethernet and may produce inadequate quality calls due to packet loss. You can follow our full guide of network recommendations here.
Connection Interference
Strong electrical interference can affect both physical and wireless connections. Ensure strongly electrical devices such as cameras, speakers, power supplies, and phones are kept away from your router, cabling, and connected device.
Use QoS When Available
Some modern routers are equipped with a Quality of Service feature (QoS). This feature requests the router to prioritize packets from VoIP calls over other Internet packet types, so as to ensure improved communications. Check to see if your router supports this feature and enable it if present.