How to Test and Troubleshoot Packet Loss on Your Brisbane Business Internet Connection

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Test and Troubleshoot Packet Loss on Your Brisbane Business Internet Connection. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Packet loss occurs when data packets travelling across your network fail to reach their destination. For Brisbane businesses, this often results in choppy VoIP calls, laggy video conferences, and unstable remote desktop sessions. This guide will help you identify whether packet loss is occurring and provide steps to resolve it.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your modem and router by switching them off, waiting 30 seconds, and switching them back on.
2. Check that all Ethernet cables are firmly plugged into your devices and wall sockets.
3. If you are using Wi-Fi, move closer to your wireless access point or switch to a wired connection.
4. Close unnecessary applications and browser tabs that may be consuming bandwidth.

Detailed Instructions

Run a Packet Loss Test

1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Navigate to a network testing tool such as pingplotter.com or testmy.net.
3. Run a test to a reliable server, such as 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare).
4. Observe the results. Any percentage of packet loss above 1-2% is generally considered problematic for business applications.

Test Using Command Prompt (Windows)

1. Press Windows Key + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. Type the following command and press Enter: ping 8.8.8.8 -n 50
3. Review the summary at the end of the results. Look for the "Packets: Sent = X, Received = Y, Lost = Z" line.
4. If you see lost packets, run a trace route to see where the loss is occurring: tracert 8.8.8.8

Test Using Terminal (macOS)

1. Press Command + Space, type Terminal, and press Enter.
2. Type the following command and press Enter: ping -c 50 8.8.8.8
3. Check the output for packet loss statistics.

Troubleshooting

Check Your Hardware

• Inspect Ethernet cables for visible damage or fraying.
• Ensure your router firmware is up to date via the manufacturer's admin panel.
• If using a switch, try bypassing it to see if the packet loss stops.

Optimise Your Wi-Fi Connection

• Reduce interference by moving your router away from microwaves and cordless phones.
• Switch to the 5GHz band for less congestion, provided your device supports it.
• For critical business devices like VoIP phones, always use a wired Ethernet connection where possible.

If you have completed these steps and are still experiencing packet loss, please Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team.

Still Having Issues?