The COVID-19 pandemic has closed offices and schools. Families now use the house for both work and play, which can strain the quality of their internet service. If you’re experiencing lagging, poor video conferencing conditions, and slow speeds, your home could use more bandwidth. As the new school year approaches, make sure everyone in your home has the connectivity they need to get their work done.

What Is Bandwidth? 

Bandwidth is the amount of data you can send and receive through your internet service connection. Consider bandwidth as a highway. The data (downloads, uploads, streams, pictures, etc.) are the cars, and they’re moving at the same speed. The bandwidth highway needs more lanes to fulfill data requests. 

The amount of data that can be sent over the connection is calculated in megabits per second (Mbps). If 1 Mbps represents one lane of the highway and the information you requested is 10 Mb in size, it would take 10 seconds to arrive. However, if you had a bandwidth of 10 Mbps, that same 10 Mb request would be completed in one second.

What Are Common Causes of Bandwidth Issues?

When many data requests (cars) are made, the bandwidth (highway) experiences a traffic jam. Also, not all data requests are the same size. Sending an email requires little bandwidth, whereas downloading a movie or video conferencing will take up much more. With less bandwidth available, requests take longer to complete, causing delays and poor service. 

Often, many data requests are the result of multiple devices being used at once. For instance, you’re using your PC for work. At the same time, your spouse is also working on a laptop. One of your children is remote learning with their teacher on a tablet, while the other child is streaming a cartoon. The high demand means there is less bandwidth to complete the tasks, resulting in slower speeds for everyone. 

How Can You Keep Your Internet Fast & Reliable? 

Verify your connection level by running Speedtest®, which is available on all devices. If the speed is slow, contact your internet service provider (ISP). 

In some cases, the router might be out of date. They can replace it with a newer model that can handle the increased bandwidth demands. Additionally, the ISP can boost the signal, which may solve the issue. 

The providers can also increase the bandwidth Mbps allocated to your network. This will increase response time for data requests and boost speed while substantially reducing lag and latency. 

Once fall arrives, many parents may be working from home while their children will be learning beside them. To ensure your internet service is up to the task, reach out to TSC in St. Marys and Wapakoneta, OH. Since 1995, they have provided reliable internet at affordable rates. Offering both wireless and broadband options, your family will benefit from the increased speed and bandwidth. For more information on their services, visit their website. To speak to one of their knowledgeable professionals, call (419) 739-2200.