- Packet loss is a common issue that can lead to disrupted communication and decreased performance. This blog will explain what packet loss is, its causes, and the steps you can take to fix it.
- By understanding its causes and implementing the appropriate fixes, you can minimise packet loss and improve the overall reliability of your network.
With the rapid shift to hybrid working, organisations all over the globe are tasked with managing increasingly complex unified communications environments to ensure the lines of communication are always open. Any organisation regularly experiencing packet loss, jitter and latency, will have major obstacles standing in the way of clear communication. Using network monitoring and management software, you can identify the causes of packet loss and implement the recommended fixes, thus reducing packet loss, improving network performance, and enjoying a more stable internet connection.
What is packet loss
Packet loss occurs when data packets fail to reach their destination while accessing the internet or a network. This leads to network disruption, slow service, and possible loss of connectivity for users. Applications like video, audio, and gaming that rely on real-time packet processing are especially sensitive to packet loss. In business networks, performance issues can have a significant impact on overall business performance. Packet loss is a prevalent operational problem that can affect network performance and must be addressed to ensure smooth operations.
Also read: What are the key protocols for effective network monitoring?
Causes of packet loss
Packet loss is a common issue in networking that can stem from various sources. Network congestion, caused by an overload of traffic, and hardware malfunctions such as faulty network components are primary culprits. Moreover, physical interference like electromagnetic disruptions and software misconfigurations can also lead to dropped packets. In wireless networks, signal degradation due to increased distance from access points is another significant factor. To maintain a dependable and efficient network connection, it is essential to identify and proactively resolve these issues through proper troubleshooting and optimisation measures.
Also read: What is network optimisation in telecoms?
How to fix packet loss
Check network traffic: Use monitoring tools to identify if high traffic is causing congestion and consider implementing Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritise critical traffic.
Update hardware and firmware: Ensure that all networking hardware is functioning correctly and that firmware is up to date.
Optimise network configuration: Review and adjust network settings to ensure optimal performance.
Use wired connections: If possible, switch to wired Ethernet connections to reduce the risk of packet loss in wireless networks.
Upgrade network infrastructure: Invest in higher-quality networking equipment that can handle greater loads and has better error correction capabilities.
Implement redundancy: Use multiple network paths to ensure that if one path fails, others can take over.
Minimise physical interference: Ensure that wireless access points are placed away from sources of interference and that antennas are correctly aligned.
Monitor and adjust: Continuously monitor network performance and make adjustments as needed to maintain optimal data transfer.
In conclusion, understanding packet loss and knowing how to address it is crucial for maintaining a reliable and efficient network connection. By following the steps outlined above and being proactive in monitoring your network performance, you can mitigate packet loss and ensure a seamless online experience.
