Real-time video calls are one of the most significant advancements to come out of the internet age. In the blink of an eye, far-flung family members and friends can reconnect like they’re in the same room on a camera-equipped device.
But this fun and functional feature hasn’t come without its growing pains.
As these technologies proliferated, internet speeds and bandwidth struggled to keep up with increasing demands. That meant video calls were prone to lag, freeze or drop completely.
Video conferencing requires real-time data transmission. Slow or unstable internet can cause annoying delays, pixelated video and disconnections. The main causes of these issues include:
- Slow speeds: Insufficient bandwidth can’t keep up with high-definition video and audio.
- High latency: A delay in data transfer creates lag and out-of-sync conversations.
- Network congestion: Multiple users on the same connection reduce available bandwidth.
- Inconsistent signals: Older technologies like DSL or cable internet are prone to interference and slowdowns.
How fiber internet fixes these issues
- Blazing-fast speeds for seamless video calls
Fiber-optic internet provides speeds of up to 1 Gbps or higher, significantly surpassing those of traditional cable or DSL connections. This allows for seamless HD and 4K video conferencing, even with multiple participants. Unlike older connection types, fiber-optic internet maintains consistent performance during peak usage times, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
- Low latency for instant response times
Latency, defined as the time it takes for data to travel between devices, is critical for video calls. Fiber internet has low latency, which helps to minimize delays and interruptions that can occur with high-latency connections. This results in smoother and more continuous conversations.
- Reliable performance without interference
Unlike cable or DSL, which use copper wires that can be affected by electrical interference and weather conditions, fiber-optic cables transmit data using light signals. This method ensures consistent performance (even in bad weather), minimal signal degradation over long distances, and stable connectivity in densely populated areas.
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds
Traditional broadband internet often provides higher download speeds compared to upload speeds, which can result in lag during video calls. By contrast, fiber internet offers symmetrical speeds, ensuring that both uploads and downloads occur at the same high speed. This feature is crucial for facilitating smooth two-way communication, especially for remote workers and users of video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet.
- Handles multiple devices without slowdowns
A household with multiple devices streaming, gaming and working simultaneously can overload slower internet connections. Fiber internet offers high bandwidth capacity, allowing multiple users to stay connected without experiencing speed drops or buffering.
With fiber internet, you won’t have to apologize for a choppy connection or missing crucial moments in a meeting due to buffering.
Ready to say goodbye to lag, interruptions and dropped calls? Check your address for fiber availability now.