How Can I Improve Network Performance?

If you need help with your network, whether because it crashes regularly, loads slowly, or struggles in some other way to function the way it should, it’s a good idea to start by checking the basics so you may consider a few changes. This can help you find the root cause of your performance issues before delving into advanced solutions.

In this article, we will study four basic checks you can perform to get your network to work the way it should.

4 Steps to Improve Network Performance

Step 1: Check for Dropped Packets

A network packet is a unit of data grouped together and transferred to a network, typically a packet-switched network like the internet. If things are moving slowly, one thing to do is to check for dropped packets by investigating the following.

The simplest way to measure packet loss is to run a ping check. Do this by sending multiple pings to the destination and look for failed responses. If you perceive multiple failed answers, there could be a problem with the modem or router.
Check latency and jitter. If you’re experiencing high latency and jitter, it could be due to bandwidth overuse by other users in your area or on the same ISP you use (or both). You may have to upgrade your plan if this happens frequently enough to affect performance on websites and services that require higher speeds.
Study packet loss, reordering, corruption, and delivery ratio statistics as well as average throughput rates across various protocols such as TCP versus UDP traffic flows. These metrics should give you insight into whether there are any hardware issues that might affect performance on either end of an internet connection before you go looking elsewhere for solutions.

Step 2: Check Firmware for Router

If the last time you updated your router’s firmware was months ago, it’s probably time to do it again. Firmware is the software that runs on your router and enables it to communicate with other devices on your network. The good news is that most routers have automatic software updates, and they alert users when new versions are available (and even download them automatically). If any bugs or security issues have been discovered in the latest update, you’ll want to get them fixed as soon as possible.

However, you should never assume your network performs automatic updates. Often, individuals or companies will change the settings only to allow manual updates. This is usually done to prevent sudden changes to how applications and software are run.

In today’s technology-dependent world, maintaining top-tier network performance is a prerequisite for long-term success.

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Step 3: Upgrade Wi-Fi

Before upgrading your Wi-Fi, it’s essential to check for a newer version of your router. If you’re unsure about how old your current router is, or if an updated version is available, visit the manufacturer’s website and search for “router.” You should be able to find information on how old their products are and whether new versions have been released recently.

If you decide it’s time to upgrade, make certain the new device supports the latest, up-to-date system. Given that technology advances as quickly as it does, you risk purchasing an older system that will go quickly out of date.

Step 4: Consider Upgrading the Equipment or Network

It’s also worth considering an upgrade to your equipment or network. If you have many devices using a fast router, consider switching to a more intense internet plan.

Likewise, if you are already on a high-speed internet connection with multiple devices but still experience slowdowns when streaming video or working online, you might think about ordering more reliable service by switching providers or upgrading to fiber optic lines instead of cable television lines.

Obtaining these network performance solutions may be costly, but they are much less expensive than if the entire system crashes and equipment must be replaced along with the network.

Your One-Stop Shop for Managed Network Services

If you’re experiencing network issues, diagnosing them as soon as possible is essential. The last thing you want is a complete network crash in which work, documents, and other essential tasks may be utterly lost. At Reverus, we understand the importance of avoiding tech downtime. That’s why we deliver complete management of your network, from security and 24/7 monitoring, to patches and day-to-day IT support. If you’re ready to improve your network performance, start a conversation with the experts. We’re happy to help.