How do I troubleshoot drops in my video calls?

Experiencing video call drops can be frustrating, but there are several potential causes for this issue. Let's go through some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem:

  1. Use a wired connection: If possible, connect your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. Wired connections tend to be more stable and reliable compared to wireless connections, reducing the chances of call drops.
  2. Close bandwidth-intensive applications: Bandwidth-heavy applications, such as file downloads or video streaming, can consume a significant portion of your internet bandwidth, leading to video call drops. Close any unnecessary applications or downloads to free up bandwidth for your video call.

  3. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router: If you're using Wi-Fi for your video calls, ensure that you are in close proximity to the router. The further away you are, the weaker the Wi-Fi signal becomes, which can result in drops or poor call quality. Moving closer to the router can help improve the signal strength.

  4. Restart your device and the video call application: Sometimes, software glitches or temporary issues can cause call drops. Try restarting your device and relaunching the video call application to see if that resolves the problem.

  5. Disable other devices on the network: If multiple devices are connected to your network, their activities may impact the available bandwidth for your video call. Temporarily disable or disconnect other devices from the network to see if it improves the stability of your video call.
  6. Update your video call application: Ensure that you are using the latest version of your video call application. Developers regularly release updates that may address performance issues and bugs. Check for updates in your app store or the application's settings.

  7. Consider using a different video call application: If you continue to experience call drops with a specific application, try using an alternative video call service to determine if the issue is related to the application itself.

  8. Check your internet connection: A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial for uninterrupted video calls. Verify that you have a strong and consistent internet connection by running a speed test speedtest.net. If your internet is slow or intermittent, try resetting your router or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.
  9. Contact your internet service provider: If you have exhausted all troubleshooting steps and are still facing video call drops, it may be worth reaching out to your internet service provider. They can assist in diagnosing any potential network issues or provide recommendations for improving your internet connection.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve common causes of video call drops.