Test for packet loss locally and over the internet with a simple command line tool to isolate the problem.
Make changes to your web connection setup or contact your ISP to solve the issue.
Packet loss can play havoc with your web link connection.
3dkombinat/Shutterstock.com
Fortunately, testing for it is relatively straightforward on both a local connection and over the internet.
Here’s what you oughta know before you complain to your ISP.
What Is a Packet?
Anas Riad/Shutterstock.com
Packets are used because computer networks are “packet-switching” networks.
All data transferred over local and global computer networks is broken down into packets of around 1500 bytes.
What Is Packet Loss?
Packet loss is what happens when one of these packets does not reach its destination.
Random packet loss can occur as part of “normal” online grid performance.
You may notice jerky motion in games, web connection timeouts, or random disconnection.
What Causes Packet Loss?
Much of the time, packet loss is due to factors outside of your control.
This could be due to problems with services you’re using, telecommunications infrastructure, orinternet service provider outages.
Packet loss can affect both local networks and the wider internet.
In most cases, this will be 192.168.0.1 or 10.0.0.1.
Now run
in PowerShell, where
is the IP address of your router.
The ping command will run indefinitely, each time sending a single packet of data.
Let it run for a bit, then hit Ctrl+C to cancel the command.
Any packet loss experienced will be listed.
Ideally, you want to see “0% loss” reported for this test.
This means that the connection between your gear and your router isn’t dropping packets.
To do this on a Mac or Linux computer, use the Terminal app.
trigger the
command to see your router IP address listed at the top of the page.
Now run
replacing
with the router IP address.
The command will run indefinitely, sending and receiving a single packet each time.
Let it run then hit Control+C to cancel the command.
You’ll see any packet loss listed.
If you see “0% loss” then your local connection isn’t dropping packets.
Internet speed test websites likespeedtest.netorpacketlosstest.comwill also let you know about any dropped packets.
Related:How Do Internet Speed Tests Work?
(and How Accurate Are They?)
start your machine and apply any outstanding software updates.
If your internet equipment is under heavy load, test at a time when loads are lighter.
The obvious remedy is touse a wired web connection, even though that’s not always practical.
You may want to try switching between the2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequenciesto see if that helps.
Try turning off large appliances and re-testing to isolate the source.
If you’ve got the option to test with other hardware, do so.
Borrowing a modem and router from a friend to rule out your own equipment could save you some money!
It’s one of the many reasonsyour internet connection can seem slow.
