Tips to Improve Zoom Audio & Video with Low Bandwidth
- Erin Warner
If you are experiencing any issues with delays, freezing, poor quality audio, or getting disconnected while using Zoom on a WiFi connection, try the following tips to improve your experience.
Use the best Internet connection you can
Whenever possible, plug an Ethernet cable directly from your computer into the wireless router (be sure to disable WiFi on your computer if plugged in). Wired is better than Wifi, Wifi is better than Cellular (3G/4G/LTE). It’s also important to note that other computers/devices using the same network, while in a Zoom meeting, can cause the network to slow down and cause audio and video issues.
Adjust your location within your home
To maximize signal quality, you must do one of two things: move the router or move yourself. The closer you are to your router, the better your signal quality. Just like any other radio device, WiFi routers have a particular range. As you move further from it, you’ll get choppy packet delivery (your video and audio could freeze). Also note that walls and staircases can weaken the WiFi distance.
Stop your webcam when you don’t need it
If your instructor or moderator is okay with you doing so, start your video only when you need to show yourself on webcam, and stop your video when it isn’t needed. Stopping your own video will reduce traffic going out on your network.
Close other, unneeded applications on your computer
Zoom meetings can demand significant memory and processing power from your computer. Closing other applications, ones you do not need during the session, will help Zoom run better.
Disable HD webcam video
Sending high definition (HD) webcam video requires more bandwidth than sending non-HD. Disabling HD video will free up more of your Internet connection for other parts of your Zoom meeting. Disable this setting. Open the Zoom Desktop App – click the gear icon, selecting video and uncheck HD Video.
Avoid other activities that steal bandwidth
Don’t start other bandwidth-intensive activities just before, or during, a Zoom meeting. On your Zoom device and other computers/devices that share your Internet connection—avoid:
large downloads/uploads
streaming video (e.g. Netflix, Hulu, YouTube)
cloud backups (e.g. Carbonite, CrashPlan)
cloud file synchronizations (e.g. Box, OneDrive, Dropbox)
Wireless Router Maintenance
Similar to having to reboot your computer periodically, it’s also a good idea to reboot your wireless router. Typically, this can be done by unplugging the power cable for 30 seconds and then plugging back it. It will generally take a few minutes for the router to reboot so that you can connect. Whether you own or rent your router, it’s always a good idea to perform software updates to them. You can contact your Service Provider and the manufacture to find out information on how to update your router.
Visit the Zoom website for additional WiFi Connection Issues