Having to deal with network performance issues can be a huge headache for both homes and businesses. The trouble is that there are many contributing factors which can impact the performance of a network, and while some issues can be resolved with straightforward solutions, others may require thorough testing or a technical eye to diagnose.
In this blog, we will look at some of these influential factors such as the amount of data being transmitted, the negative effects of packet loss, the impact of access points, and how the number of connected devices and network traffic can affect overall performance.
We will also look at network range, bandwidth requirements, and high latency, which can lead to frustratingly long delays during data transmission. When you have an understanding of these factors, you can take informed steps to enhance your network for better connectivity and performance.
Basic factors to consider
Some network performance issues are quite easy to detect and put right. These can involve actual hardware or the line your internet connection is coming from. The issue can be as simple as network range, if your devices are too far away from the main router or wireless access points you will not get the best performance from your network. Our WiFi and network design services are available for this very reason. We can map out your building to ensure that every area has a good and strong connection to the internet and network.
The building or location of your building can also play a factor in your network performance. Older buildings with really thick walls can be an issue if your network has not been designed correctly with these factors in mind.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that comes through your line in a fixed amount of time. The higher the bandwidth you have, the faster your data transfer will be. Low bandwidth means the data takes longer to send which can cause issues with your network speeds. If bandwidth is an issue for you, you may need to upgrade your internet lines.
Number Of Devices And Users Connected To Your Network
The number of devices you have connected to your network can also cause problems with your network performance. The more devices connected to your network the thinner your broadband is spread as it is divided among the number of users, if your network is well designed from the outset by a professional this will be taken into consideration. It is a good idea to cater for more users than you have so that you can future-proof your network solution for any potential growth.
Errors In Transmission and Interference
Interference can have a big impact on your network performance. Some cabling provides better protection from interference than others so if this is an issue for you, you may need to look into replacing your cables with something more robust that prevents transmission and interference issues.
How Does Bandwidth Affect Network Performance
Bandwidth is the speed at which data can be transferred between devices or through a network. It plays a crucial role in how much data can be transferred over a network within a certain length of time.
The higher the bandwidth the faster the data transfer between devices and over the network. This results in quicker loading times for web pages, faster file downloads, and smoother streaming of videos and audio. Equally, lower bandwidth can lead to slow data transfer, causing delays and buffering issues.
When a network is shared by multiple users, a higher bandwidth ensures that all users can access the network without experiencing significant go-slows or congestion. With sufficient bandwidth, multiple devices can use the network simultaneously without compromising on anyone’s performance.
Latency can be affected by bandwidth, which is the delay between sending and receiving data. The higher the bandwidth can reduce latency, leading to quicker response times for online activities such as online gaming, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications. Lower bandwidth can result in higher latency, causing delays and lags in data transmission.
Networks with sufficient bandwidth tend to be more stable and reliable, with fewer instances of dropped connections. With adequate bandwidth, you can handle fluctuations in data traffic and provide a consistent user experience. Networks with limited bandwidth may suffer from instability and interruptions, especially during peak usage times.
If you are thinking of expanding a business or you are adding more and more devices you’re your home, a higher bandwidth allows a network to accommodate increased data demands as the number of connected devices or users grows. It ensures that you can scale your network effectively to support additional devices.
Technical Factors That Affect Network Performance
If you have exhausted all the usual culprits, it may be time to get a bit more technical. Latency refers to the processing of network data. If you have a high latency you could suffer from lengthy delays. High latency can create bottlenecks in your network which will in turn affect your network performance. An issue with high latency can last for a few seconds or last much longer. There can also be issues with packet loss. A network health check from one of our expert network technicians will be able to pick up any issue like this and we will be able to find a solution for you.
Network Performance Improvement
If you are having any issues with your network performance our expert engineers at the WiFi Specialist can help.
We can run our network health check to notice any issues that may be lurking unnoticed, and we also have a network repair service that will help with all aspects of your network.
Contact our Network Experts, if you are experiencing network issues
Contact The Wifi Specialist today for a quote or to arrange a no obligation survey
Our Happy Clients
I was struggling to get a decent wifi signal down to the garden office until the Wifi Specialists recommended a Point to Point kit. Now the internet is faster in the office than it is in the house. The guys did a great job installing too, keeping all the cabling very neat and hidden wherever possible. Even sorted out the TV aerial cable while they were doing the P2P cabling! Great service, strongly recommend.
Richard G
Couldn't recommend Indy more highly. They helped us implement an effective corporate wifi solution at very short notice. Communication throughout was excellent and we look forward to working with them again.
Francesca M
Indy and Rakki are first class guys, they did a professional job in record time and I ended up with a better router indoors as well as the Access point outdoors which now covers the whole garden. Definitely recommend the Wifi specialists.
John M
I'm absolute delighted with the service provided by The WiFi Specialist in running an ethernet cable out to my garden office. Indy was extremely helpful in discussion the options available to me, and recommending the right approach, and the work was carried out efficiently and with minimum disruption. I'm thrilled to now have a secure connection, and would definitely recommend The WiFi Specialist to anyone looking to improve connectivity.
Simon M
Excellent, knowledgeable, seamless experience with Indy and team. Not to mention my now perfect wifi!
Sarah K
I had been struggling with my wifi signal around my house for a number of years and the situation only got worse as we moved to remote working. After many attempts to get the issue addressed through the local ISP, I (my wife and kids) decided that I needed a specialist to come in. Indy made the whole process very simple from the initial site visit, design guidance and installation. I had my house refurbished a few years ago so adding new cabling around the house needed knowledge and experience. Indy and Rak did a great job at concealing the cat6 cables and provided a professional finish. I now have full wifi signal all around the house, garden and garage. I would highly recommend The Wi-Fi Specialist. Thank you.
Amarjit K
The IT service from this company was exemplary and resulted in a very good WiFi signal throughout the house. Indy was generous with his time and explained the technology well, without trying to sell equipment that would have been unnecessary for a domestic installation. He is friendly, knowledgeable and very professional. It was a great pleasure to work with him.
Andy A
