Using Webex Meetings on low bandwidth - Best Practices
How do I use Webex Meetings with poor internet?
Run a speed test:
Not sure if your Wi-Fi can handle the call? Use the in-meeting health checker feature supported from Webex Meeting version 39.5 for Windows and 39.8 for Mac OS and later. Click here for more on the Health Checker function. You can also use any internet-based speed test to better understand your connection speeds.
Hardwire your workstation:
Depending on your location and how many people are using the same Wi-Fi around you, you may see slower speeds on Wi-Fi than on a wired ethernet connection to your workstation.
Shift your schedule:
Most people join their meetings in hour or 30-minute increments. You can get a faster join experience by joining 5 minutes early, or even better yet, schedule meetings on the 15th or 45th minute of the hour.
Reboot the PC; Reboot your router:
Allows different system components to be flushed and for the clearing up of temporary files and processes.
Share content before the meeting:
Sending files before a conference or sharing a link to the file rather than sharing your screen, saves valuable bandwidth - you can save your connection for great audio and video experience.
Close background applications:
Even if you are not using them, applications on your device are using precious resources. Before your meeting, close any applications and browser sessions that you are not using for a better experience.
Turn off VPN:
Your employer may have provided you with a VPN (virtual private network) service that allows you to use the company network while working remotely. Often, VPN can limit the bandwidth available to Webex. You can use Webex Meetings outside of VPN for a better experience.
Turn off HD video:
When video quality is low during the meeting, go to Settings, and under Camera uncheck the HD video option. Bandwidth consumption will be reduced allowing for a better in-meeting experience under challenging capacity environments.
Choose audio over video:
When your connection quality is low, your collaboration experience gets worse. Webex will suggest or automatically lower your video resolution, and may eventually turn off your video. You can also turn off video from the app at any time; to learn more click here.
Switch to Call In audio:
If your internet audio and video experience or call me/call back do not work, you can keep collaborating. Call into the meeting using the dial-in numbers in your meeting invitation to join via your cell phone or landline. If the primary phone number that is provided is temporarily unavailable, the invite includes a list of other global log-in numbers, and to find the numbers click here.
Reduce simultaneous streaming activities:
We all love a binge-worthy TV series! But, if you’re joining a meeting and your family is also home, ask them to hold off on that next episode of their favorite show until your meeting is over. Wherever possible, consider downloading shows for off-line watching to save valuable bandwidth during your work hours.
Minimize contending traffic:
Also, be aware that multiple people conferencing from home at the same time will harm available network resources for all.
Reduce movement:
Consider minimizing movement while you are presenting. Also, minimize talking while transitioning between slides. Establish good meeting etiquette to enable a great collaborative experience.