How to Beat Work-from-Home Woes and Master Internet Latency

Working from home (WFH) has been the new norm for many of us over the past few years. It’s convenient, flexible, and, for some, more productive.

But there’s one consistent enemy that many remote workers face: internet latency. This enemy goes by many names: lagging, internet lag, and the dreaded “buffering” message when you’re on an important video call. In this post, we’ll explore internet latency, its impact on your WFH internet, and ways to beat buffering.

Understanding internet latency

Internet latency is the time it takes for data to travel from the original source to the final destination. Think of it as time traveled for your data. Low latency means a shorter amount of time between data transfers, or in practical terms, faster, better service for you. High latency is where we see complications like lag, buffering, and delays.

The rule of thumb is, the lower the latency, the better the connection. But latency isn’t just about buffering videos but also that split-second delay that can disrupt an entire meeting. It’s the new-age productivity killer!

The importance of reliable internet for WFH

Picture this: You’re in a virtual brainstorming session, brimming with ideas, and just as you’re about to share your groundbreaking thought – you freeze. Not because of nerves, but due to internet lag. You rejoin, only to find the conversation has moved on. We’ve all been there, haven’t we?

A lagging connection isn’t just an inconvenience. It affects productivity, workflow, and professional image. Imagine being in a video conference and missing out on essential information because of lag or frozen screens. Or waiting forever for large work files to upload or download.

Reliable work from home internet is as essential as a computer.

How to fix internet lag and optimize WFH internet

The good news is, there are ways to combat this menace. First, regularly test your internet speed. Find a work from home internet speed test to see how fast your uploads and downloads are really.

Next, get acquainted with your work from home internet speed requirements. It’s not just about speed but also stability. If you’re just sending emails and checking websites, you won’t require the same speed as someone who needs to download and upload large files for work. More on that later.

Here are some more tips on how to fix internet lag at home:

• Position your router right: Keeping your router in a central location, free from obstructions, can work wonders. If you’ve noticed a change in latency or speed out of the blue, resetting your router is a good idea.
• Wired connections: Consider an Ethernet connection for more stability. When you plug in an ethernet cable, you should see a boost in latency compared to WiFi.
• Limit the number of devices: Multiple devices can hog bandwidth. Disconnect devices not in use.
• Regularly update router firmware: Keeping your router updated ensures optimal performance.

How to determine the right internet speed for your needs

If you’re in the market for new internet or you’ve recently accepted a remote gig, you may be asking yourself “what internet speed do I need to work from home?” or “what is a good internet speed for working from home?”

Truth be told, while higher speeds are better, consistency and reliability matter most. The best internet speed for working from home will largely depend on your day-to-day tasks and activities.

Every profession has its unique requirements. Designers might need faster speeds for large file transfers, while others might require a stable connection for video conferencing. Here’s a breakdown of speeds we recommend based on typical WFH tasks:

Note: These are general recommendations. The actual speed you need may vary based on specific job requirements, software, and the number of devices connected at the same time.EarthLink’s solutions to your WFH internet needsIn an age where remote work reigns supreme, a steadfast internet connection is your silent partner in success. EarthLink recognizes the varied demands of the modern work-from-home professional and rises to the occasion with a suite of specialized internet solutions:

Task/Activity	Recommended Minimum Speed
Email and Basic Web Browsing	3-5 Mbps
Video Conferencing (Standard Definition)	5-10 Mbps
Video Conferencing (High Definition)	10-20 Mbps
Streaming Work-Related Videos	10-25 Mbps
Large File Downloads/Uploads	50-100 Mbps
Multiple Devices or Users	100+ Mbps
Online Gaming (For Breaks, Of Course!)	25-50 Mbps
Cloud-Based Applications	10-30 Mbps

EarthLink’s solutions to your WFH internet needs

In an age where remote work reigns supreme, a steadfast internet connection is your silent partner in success. EarthLink recognizes the varied demands of the modern work-from-home professional and rises to the occasion with a suite of specialized internet solutions:

1. Fiber Internet:
   • Fast Speeds: Experience lag-free tasks and calls.
   • Unlimited Data: No worries about data caps.
   • Enhanced Security: Top-tier measures to protect your data.
   • Reliable: Consistent and steady connections.
2. Wireless Home Internet:
   • Latest Technology: Connect via local 5G and 4G LTE.
   • Easy Installation: Quick and hassle-free setups.
   • Wide Coverage: Consistent connectivity, wherever you are.
3. Satellite Internet:
   • For Rural Areas: Offering connectivity to remote places.
   • Stable: Reliable, even from a satellite connection.
   • Worldwide Access: Engage with the global community, irrespective of location.

Conclusion

Working from home has plenty of perks, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges. Internet latency shouldn’t be one of them. With EarthLink, lagging and buffering can be things of the past. Opt-in for our tailor-made solutions and redefine your work from home experience.

Remember, it’s not just about having an internet connection; it’s about having the right internet connection.