What is it and how can you influence it? In this publication, we will provide you with key information on this topic. In addition, you will also learn how you can verify it, what factors limit it, and what to do to improve the performance of your company’s network.
What is internet bandwidth?
Bandwidth determines the maximum amount of data that can be transferred in a given time. Importantly, it is NOT the same as internet speed, as it only shows the potential of a given network.
The measure used to determine it is megabits or gigabits per second (Mbps and Gbps, respectively). 1 Gbps is, of course, equal to 1000 Mbps.
What affects it?
This aspect is determined by two types of factors.
- External (usually beyond your control), including: provider infrastructure, network congestion, node failures, and cabling issues.
- Internal (which you can influence), including: router and network equipment, cabling, number of devices, router location, and finally, network configuration.
How to check your bandwidth? An overview of available methods.
To verify this parameter, you can use specialised tools available online (so-called speed tests). If you want highly reliable readings, we recommend using the support of external IT specialists.
Remember: before you perform such a test, close all applications that use the internet. Then connect your computer directly to the router. Perform the measurement at least several times, preferably at different times.
If you think that something is wrong with the bandwidth of your company’s connection, check whether the problem affects all devices or only some of them. Changes may be due to the behaviour of specific users (e.g. intensive downloading) or problems with the WiFi signal (in certain rooms).
How to optimise and increase your internet connection bandwidth?
The first step to optimising your bandwidth is to check your current package with your internet provider. Verify whether your needs have exceeded its current capabilities. It may turn out that switching to a higher service package will solve the bandwidth problem. However, if this does not help…
#1 Upgrade your equipment
Check your router (including its location) and cabling. Solutions from a few years ago may not support the latest WiFi standards and may not provide a good quality connection.
#2 Router configuration
If you are using modern equipment, check its settings, especially the WiFi channels, which play an important role. Make sure it is operating on the correct bands. Do not forget to update regularly. Outdated software can also limit the potential of your network.
#3 Network traffic management and usage optimisation
Much depends not only on the equipment, but also on its skilful use. Measures that will help you with this include:
- System and application updates and other ‘large’ operations – carried out at night, outside working hours.
- Data compression in browsers.
- Task prioritisation indicating which applications have priority access to bandwidth and which can ‘wait’.
Examples of the most common bandwidth problems. How can you tell that something is wrong?
The ‘typical’ symptoms of low bandwidth include, above all, inconveniences related to network usage.
These include, for example: constant buffering, long loading times for web pages and applications, problems when downloading files, disruptions during video conferences, and simply – complete network disconnections.
Do you want to increase the performance of your company’s network?
Reach out to our experts for support. Our offer includes wireless network design, cabling, and a range of other services. We invite you to a no-obligation consultation.
