Optimize Your Internet Connection for PracticeQ

Check Your Hardware

If the connection issues do not stem from your internet connection, check your hardware. Hardware includes your computer, modem, router (if applicable), and any other physical devices that could impact your office or home network.

Computer

• Depending on the age on your computer, it may not be able to take full advantage of your internet connection. The standard lifespan of laptops is around 3-4 years. The lifespan of desktops is about 5 years. After this period, computers will start to experience degraded performance when performing tasks. You may notice things like increased boot up time and slower response from programs. This typically means it is time for an upgrade.
• If your computer is still relatively new but is showing performance slowdown, you can free up system RAM. This should help speed up your internet connection. First, uninstall any programs you are not using, and make sure you are not running too many other programs while using the PracticeQ system.
• The follows articles explain more on this for Windows and MacOS:
  • Simple Ways to Reduce Memory Usage on Mac
  • 8 Ways to Free Up RAM on Your Windows Computer

Modem

• Not all modems are made equal. Older modems may not be able to take full advantage of your internet connection, as they may only support slower network speeds. 
• The latest modems can support over 160 Mbps, which is many times faster than previous models release only a few years back. 
• Modems degrade in performance over time, so you may need to replace them every 5 years or so depending on numerous factors. To increase the lifespan of your modem, please do the following:
  
  • Ensure that it is stored in a well-ventilated area.
  • Keep it away from heaters, microwaves, televisions, and wireless phones. 
  • Clean the modem regularly. Dust prevents proper ventilation.

Router

On top of a modem (which connects you to the internet) some people have an external router connected to allow more devices to connect to the network or to get WiFi support if your modem does not support it. 

• Clean your router as you do your modem.
• Routers also degrade in performance over time. 
• Keep your router away from any other devices that emit wireless signals, such as cordless phones and televisions.
• If your router is being used for the WiFi connection, place it in an ideal office location to ensure you have a good connection on the computer or other device that you use to connect to PracticeQ. You may purchase additional antennas for a router to increase wireless performance, or look for a router that fits your specific office or home layout.

Reboot Your Network

• It is good practice to reboot your network from time to time, as it often improves performance. This includes rebooting your modem and router if you have one. 
• The best way to reboot is to unplug the devices, wait 30 seconds to 1 minute, then plug them back in again. Give them a few minutes to turn back on and re-establish the internet connection.
• Things should be working properly again following the reboot.
• At times a full reset of a modem or router may be required. A reset is more complex, as you need to access the administrative settings of those devices. For this, it may be best to contact your ISP, consult the router manufacturer, or review the owners manual. 
• Routers sometimes receive firmware updates from the manufacturer, which can improve performance. Check for updates periodically.

Call Your Internet Service Provider

• Sometimes issues arise with your internet connection speed that require your service provider to get involved. An example is a modem issue causing your speeds to be slower than normal. 
• Check to see the speeds you are paying for and the speeds you are actually getting. Run a general connection speed test  using the following website: https://www.speedtest.net/.
• Depending on the issue, your ISP may need to replace/reset your modem or repair landlines. You may need to upgrade to a faster internet plan.

Check the Other Devices on Your Network

• If you have other devices connected to your network, they could be affecting your connection speed. For example, if you're streaming or downloading large files, this can drastically impact the available bandwidth for other devices, lowering to speeds they are capable of. Make sure the network is free from any traffic of this kind to avoid connection speed issues.
• Network administrators can also adjust settings within a modem/router than can impact the bandwidth and speed across various devices and applications. Many routers support a feature referred to as Quality of Service (QoS), where you can set which applications get preferential bandwidth to ensure those devices always have the levels necessary for our system to function properly. Administrators can also use this to troubleshoot which applications are using the most bandwidth and make adjustments to improve overall network performance.

Check Your Office

Various aspects of your office or home setup may impact your internet connection, especially when on a WiFi connection. Drywall, plaster, metal, wood, and microwaves can all impact WiFi signals, possibly resulting in slower internet connection speeds. Try the following to optimize your office setup:

• Move your modem and/or router into the same room you are working out of. This will ensure you have a maximum WiFi signal.
• Connect your computer via an ethernet cable to avoid using WiFi altogether.

If you continue to have issues with your connection with PracticeQ, please reach out to us at hello@intakeq.com. We are happy to investigate further!