Better WiFi = Quality Teams Calls
How was the quality of your last Microsoft Teams call? Was the call just fine until you started sharing your desktop? Did you have to turn off incoming video to get good call quality? These are common poor experiences that get quickly written off as a problem with users PC or the network in general.
Often people comment that they need a faster NBN speed or business grade connection to have good quality teams calls, and whilst these can help they are not the most common cause of pool quality Teams calls. More often than not, it’s the local WiFi network within the corporate office or home office that is issue, not the Internet Service Provider’s (ISP) or Microsoft 365 network.
Microsoft Teams has become a crucial tool for businesses to stay connected. However, poor WiFi can make it near impossible to have clear and uninterrupted Teams calls. In this post, we will discuss the common reasons for poor WiFi in the workplace and how to fix them.
Lack of Network Management
The addition or removal of devices and technologies can impact network performance, making it a never-ending challenge for businesses. Implementing a network management solution can help with real-time monitoring and constant maintenance. To set the right expectations and work towards achieving optimal network performance, businesses should use network performance metrics such as bandwidth, throughput, latency, etc.
Poor Network Design or Configuration
Proper consideration should be given to network design, components, configurations, and security settings. The position of access points is especially important for complex layouts with Wi-Fi dead spots being common. Multiple access points that are strategically located and programmed to different channels can help prevent co-channel interference. Dual-bands should be properly utilized to reserve 5 GHz for high-bandwidth technologies such as video conferencing. Additionally, certain devices such as IoT devices should be put on a separate SSID or VLAN to ensure they receive adequate bandwidth and don't suffer from network congestion.
Poor Installation
Even with the right design and configuration, poor installation can lead to slow WiFi and poor connectivity. Professional installation, with careful placement and mounting of access points, can help get the most out of your equipment.
Bottleneck on the Wired Network
Improper utilization of cabling can negatively impact Wi-Fi performance. Robust underlying cabling is essential for a healthy and high-performance Wi-Fi network. Connecting fixed network devices such as printers, network storage devices, etc., with Ethernet cables can free up bandwidth for wireless-dependent mobile devices such as laptops and smartphones.
Higher Requirements of Your Technology Stack
Upgrading network equipment may be necessary as the requirements of your technology stack change. This will ensure that your equipment can handle the capacity required for a healthy and high-performance Wi-Fi network.
Poor WiFi can have a significant impact on Microsoft Teams calls and can negatively affect the productivity of businesses. By addressing the common reasons for slow WiFi in the workplace, businesses can ensure that their network performance is optimal, and their Microsoft Teams calls are clear and uninterrupted.
As a Microsoft Partner, HostedTech specialise in helping businesses of all sizes get the most from Microsoft Teams. We can advise on getting networks ready for voice and video calls and plan and install Teams Room devices to deliver exceptional collaboration for remote and in person meetings.