Submitted by tomrue on
An article in The New York Times notes, Surging Traffic Is Slowing Down Our Internet, "With people going online more in the pandemic, internet traffic has exploded. That’s taking a toll on our download speeds and video quality."
Heavier traffic on the Internet does not need to be a barrier to treatment. A better Internet connection improves the quality of your video conference (whether an individual or a group session). When none of the ideas presented below seem to work, under the present pandemic emergency we can sometimes resort to a telephone conversation. However, video is preferred in telehealth to audio alone and is sometimes essential.
Easy Suggestions
There are some things in life over which we are powerless (such as the existence of the coronavirus), but there are other things we can influence.
If using a desktop computer, try connecting with an ethernet cable rather than wireless you can. If using WiFi, try positioning yourself closer to your router or adjusting the antennae on the router. See if you can reduce other demands on your household's immediate Internet usage while you are conferencing, including closing other tabs and programs you may have running, or rebooting first. If Junior is playing online games in the other room, ask him to take a break. You can also reboot your router by unplugging it for a few moments and plugging it back in.
To really go all out, here are some other tips for improving connectivity:
- How to boost your home's WiFi The Verge
- How to boost your Wi-Fi signal All Connect
- How to get a stronger WiFi signal Consumer Reports
- Five essential tips to help you speed up your WiFi Youtube
One more thing you need for a telehealth visit is a safe and private space where you won't be disturbed for the length of the session -- a spare room, bedroom, or anywhere at all if you're the only one home. It doesn't even need to be indoors, as long as you have a good strong Internet connection.
If connecting from a parked car (or even on a park bench) and can get to a McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, Wendy's, KFC, Burger King, Subway etc., you may be able to access a free WiFi hot spot from the parking lot. See How to Get Free WiFi Anywhere for other suggested sites. On any public WiFi connection, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) app to improve privacy.
Free Internet Access For Students
If you need access to the Internet during the Coronavirus shut-down, call Spectrum at 844-488-8398. See Charter to Offer Free Access to Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi For 60 Days For New K-12 and College Student Households and More. Installation fees will be waived for new student households. (See article by Newburgh Free Academy.)
Help Desk: Why is my WiFi so bad? More tips and answers WaPo, 5/6/20