Advanced Dialers – Troubleshooting Tips To Improve Audio or Video Latency Issues
When using Koncert Dialers, it’s important to have the right setup to have a great experience with Koncert. Below are some troubleshooting tips and best practices if you have audio or video latency issues.
Internet:
-
Fiber Optic Internet:
-
- Advantages: Fastest and most reliable internet connection with high upload and download speeds, Generally, more consistent performance, especially during peak hours.
-
- Consideration: Availability may be limited to certain urban areas. It can be more expensive compared to other options.
-
Cable Internet:
-
- Advantages: It offers high-speed internet, widely available in urban and suburban areas. Suitable for gaming and streaming.
-
- Consideration: Speeds may vary during peak usage times. The quality of service can depend on the neighborhood’s infrastructure.
-
Multiple Devices and High-Intensity Tasks:
-
- Recommended Speed: 300+ Mbps download and 20+ Mbps upload Speed.
Internet Speed Test Tools:
-
Speed test by Ookla:
-
- Website: Speedtest by Ookla.
-
- Features: Offers a user-friendly interface, measures both download and upload speeds, provides ping latency, and allows you to choose servers from various.
-
AT&T Internet Speed Test:
-
- Website: AT&T Internet Speed Test
-
- Features: If you are an AT&T customer, their speed test tool can help you check your internet speed.
-
Xfinity Speed Test (Comcast):
-
- Website: Xfinity Speed Test
-
- Features: Customers of Xfinity (Comcast) can use this tool to check their internet speeds.
Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength:
Ensure that you are within a reasonable range of your Wi-Fi router. Walls and obstacles can affect signal strength.
-
Restart Your Router:
-
- Power cycle your Wi-Fi router by unplugging it, waiting for about 10-15 seconds, and then plugging it back in. This can often resolve connectivity issues.
-
Check Other Devices:
-
- Confirm if other devices are also experiencing Wi-Fi issues. If multiple devices are affected, the problem may be with the router or internet service.
-
Reset Network Settings on Your Device:
-
- On your device, you can try resetting network settings. This option is usually available in the device's settings menu.
-
Update Router Firmware:
-
- Check if there are firmware updates available for your Wi-Fi router. Updating the firmware can improve performance and fix bugs.
-
Change Wi-Fi Channel:
-
- If you are in an area with multiple Wi-Fi networks, interference can occur. Access your router settings and try changing the Wi-Fi channel to reduce interference.
-
Check for Interference:
-
- Electronic devices like cordless phones, microwave ovens, and Bluetooth devices can interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Keep these devices away from your router.
-
Update Device Drivers:
-
- Ensure that the Wi-Fi drivers on your computer or other devices are up to date. Outdated drivers can cause connectivity issues.
-
Use a Wired Connection:
-
- If possible, connect your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. This can help determine if the issue is specific to Wi-Fi.
-
Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP):
-
- If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact your ISP for assistance. They can check if there are any service outages or other issues affecting your connection.
-
Consider Wi-Fi Range Extenders or Mesh Systems:
-
- If your Wi-Fi signal doesn't reach certain areas of your home, consider using range extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system to improve coverage.
VPNs, Firewalls, and security apps can have various impacts on Koncert operation.
Remember to perform these steps systematically and check your Wi-Fi connection after each one to see if the issue is resolved. If the problem persists, it may be beneficial to contact your internet service provider or seek assistance from technical support.
Internet Latency Issues:
Internet latency, also known as ping, is the time it takes for data to travel from your device to a server and back. High latency can result in slow response times and lag. Here are steps to address internet latency issues:
-
Check Your Connection:
-
- Ensure that your device is connected to the internet and that there are no physical issues with your router or modem.
-
Run a Ping Test:
-
- Use the command prompt or terminal on your device to run a ping test to a reliable server. For example, you can ping Google's public DNS (8.8.8.8) by typing `ping 8.8.8.8`. Check the round-trip time (ping) to see if it's within an acceptable range.
-
Check for Interference:
-
- Other electronic devices, neighboring Wi-Fi networks, or physical obstructions can cause interference. Ensure that your Wi-Fi router is placed in an open area and away from potential sources of interference.
-
Check for Interference:
-
- Other electronic devices, neighboring Wi-Fi networks, or physical obstructions can cause interference. Ensure that your Wi-Fi router is placed in an open area and away from potential sources of interference.
-
Use a Wired Connection:
-
- If possible, connect your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. Wired connections typically have lower latency than Wi-Fi.
-
Update Router Firmware:
-
- Check if there are firmware updates available for your router. Updating the firmware can improve performance and address latency issues.
-
Check for Bandwidth Issues:
-
- If multiple devices are using the internet simultaneously, it can lead to bandwidth congestion. Limit the number of active devices or consider upgrading your internet plan.
-
Optimize Network Settings:
-
- Adjust the Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize certain types of traffic. This can help reduce latency for critical applications.
-
Consider a Different DNS Provider:
-
- Sometimes, changing your DNS server to a more reliable and faster one can improve latency. Google's public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare's DNS (1.1.1.1) are popular choices.
-
Check for Malware or Viruses:
-
- Malware or viruses on your device can affect internet performance. Run a thorough antivirus scan to ensure your system is clean.
If the latency issue persists after trying these steps, it's advisable to contact your ISP's technical support for further assistance. They can help identify and address any underlying issues with your internet connection.
To speed up Google Chrome, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Update Google Chrome:
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More .
- Click Help » About Google Chrome.
- Click Update Google Chrome.
Important: If you can't find this button, you're on the latest version.
- Click Relaunch.
Step 2: Close unused tabs:
The more tabs you have open, the harder Chrome has to work. We recommend closing tabs you aren't using.
- On the tab, click Close .
- For Windows, Linux, and Chrome OS, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + w.
- For Mac, use the keyboard shortcut ⌘ + w.
Step 3: Turn off or stop unwanted processes:
Turn off or delete unwanted extensions.
Extensions are small programs you can add to Chrome on your computer that let you do more. If you're not using all your extensions, you can turn them off to speed up Chrome.
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More » More tools » Extensions.
- Turn off or remove the extension.
Stop unwanted tasks
Look for tasks you no longer need that use a lot of resources, like a video or an app.
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More .
- Click More tools » Task Manager.
- Click Memory to sort tasks by memory usage.
TIP: Look for any items labeled Background page.
- Select the task you want to close.
- Click End Process.
NOTE: Any unsaved work in your task will be lost
Step 4: Let Chrome open pages faster:
You can turn on network action predictions ("page prefetch") to make Google Chrome open webpages faster. When the setting is on, Chrome preloads the links you might open.
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More » Settings.
- Click Privacy and security » Cookies and other site data.
- Turn on Preload pages for faster browsing and searching.
Step 5: Personalize Chrome performance:
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More .
- Then click More tools » Performance.
- Turn Memory Saver on or off.
Step 6: Clear Your Browser Cache:
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More .
- Click More tools » Clear browsing data.
- At the top, choose a time range. To delete everything, select All time.
- Next to Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, check the boxes.
- Click Clear data.
Step 7: Reset Chrome settings to default:
You can restore your browser settings in Chrome at any time. You might need to do this if apps or extensions you installed changed your settings without your knowledge. Your saved bookmarks and passwords won't be cleared or changed.
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More » Settings.
- Select Reset settings » Restore settings to their original defaults » Reset settings.
Step 8: Experiment with hardware acceleration:
Buried in Chrome's settings is a way to enable hardware acceleration, which may or may not improve Chrome's performance on your computer. Hardware acceleration allows the CPU to offload some page-rendering and loading tasks to your system's GPU.
- To find the setting, click the triple-dot Menu button and choose Settings.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the Settings page and click Show advanced settings.
- Scroll down to the System section and check (or uncheck) the box for Use hardware acceleration when available.
- Restart Chrome.
TIP: Avoid running multiple apps at the same time. We hope these tips help you speed up your browsing experience
General Best Practices for Audio Quality Issues:
Commercial / Business Grade Wired USB Headset with Noise Cancellation:
When looking for a commercial or business-grade wired USB headset with noise cancellation, you'll want a reliable option that provides clear audio quality for professional communication. Here are some reputable choices known for their noise-canceling features:
- Jabra Evolve 80:
The Jabra Evolve 80 is a premium wired USB headset with active noise cancellation. It features large ear cushions for passive noise cancellation and an integrated busy light to signal when you're on a call.
- Logitech Zone Wired Plus:
The Logitech Zone Wired Plus headset is designed for business use and features active noise cancellation for a distraction-free environment. It also has a noise-canceling microphone for clear communication.
- Plantronics (Poly) Blackwire 8225:
The Plantronics Blackwire 8225 is a USB headset with active noise cancellation, designed for professional use. It provides high-quality audio and has additional features such as dynamic mute alert.
- Sennheiser SC 660 USB CTRL:
Sennheiser's SC 660 USB CTRL is a wired USB headset with noise cancellation. It offers a comfortable fit, robust build quality, and excellent audio performance for business applications.
- EPOS | Sennheiser IMPACT SC 660 USB CTRL:
EPOS, a joint venture between Sennheiser and Demant, offers the IMPACT SC 660 USB CTRL headset with noise cancellation. It's designed for professional communication and provides a USB connection for convenience.
- Bose USB Headsets (Various Models):
Bose offers USB headsets like the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, which, while primarily wireless, can be used as wired headsets with USB connectivity. These headsets are known for their excellent noise-canceling capabilities.
Before making a purchase, consider factors such as comfort, durability, compatibility with your communication platform, and any specific features that meet your business needs. Reading user reviews and checking for compatibility with your business requirements can also help in making an informed decision.
Commercial / Business Grade Wireless Headset with Noise Cancellation:
Choosing a commercial or business-grade wireless headset with noise cancellation is crucial for a productive and professional communication experience. Here are some reputable options known for their quality and noise-canceling features:
- Jabra Evolve2 85:
The Jabra Evolve2 85 is a premium wireless headset with active noise cancellation. It features large ear cushions, advanced noise-canceling technology, and a dedicated busy light to signal when you're on a call.
- Plantronics (Poly) Voyager Focus UC:
The Plantronics Voyager Focus UC is a wireless headset with active noise cancellation. It's designed for professionals who need to move around during calls and offers excellent audio quality.
- Sennheiser MB 660 UC MS:
The Sennheiser MB 660 UC MS is a wireless headset with adaptive active noise cancellation. It provides high-quality audio and is certified for use with Microsoft Skype for Business.
- EPOS | Sennheiser ADAPT 660:
EPOS, a joint venture between Sennheiser and Demant, offers the ADAPT 660 wireless headset with noise cancellation. It's designed for business professionals and provides a comfortable fit.
- Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 UC:
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 UC are wireless headphones optimized for unified communications (UC). They offer excellent noise cancellation and audio quality for business use.
- Logitech Zone Wireless Plus:
The Logitech Zone Wireless Plus is a wireless headset designed for open workspaces. It features active noise cancellation and is compatible with various communication platforms.
When selecting a wireless headset, consider factors such as battery life, comfort, range, compatibility with your communication platform, and any additional features that enhance your workflow. It's also recommended to read user reviews and check for compatibility with your specific business requirements before making a purchase.
Here are the Protocols and Ports:
What port(s) (TCP/UDP) does Koncert operate on?
- TCP Ports – 80 and 443
- UDP Ports – 5060 and 3478
What destination public IP addresses or FQDNs does an endpoint reach out to on said port(s)?
-
Amazon Chime SDK Media Service IP Address – 99.77.128.0/18 and TCP/443 and UDP/3478
Are there any QoS recommendations?
- Traffic prioritization for UDP Streams (Voice and Video Applications)
Koncert computer audio traffic goes through AWS Chime SDK services. Additional details are available at https://docs.aws.amazon.com/chime-sdk/latest/dg/components.html
We'd recommend whitelisting domains rather than IPs, if possible since IPs can change or be added over time. Your users also need to allow microphone access within their browser to use the in-browser dialer.
Computer System Requirements:
-
Processor (CPU):
-
- For general productivity tasks, an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor is often sufficient.
-
RAM (Random Access Memory):
-
- For basic tasks and light multitasking, 8GB of RAM is typically enough.
-
Storage (HDD/SSD):
-
- SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more reliable than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). Consider at least a 256GB SSD for faster boot times and improved overall system responsiveness.
-
Display:
-
- Dual Monitors.
-
Operating System:
-
- Choose between Windows, macOS, based on your preferences and the software you need for your tasks.
Don't forget to restart & update your computer and browser!
Absolutely! Regularly restarting and updating your computer and browser are essential practices to ensure optimal performance, security, and the smooth functioning of your system. Here's why these actions are important:
Restarting Your Computer:
- Clears Memory: Restarting your computer clears the RAM (Random Access Memory), which can improve system performance by releasing resources consumed by running applications.
- Updates System Processes: A restart allows your operating system to apply updates and changes to system processes, ensuring they run efficiently.
- Fixes Minor Glitches: Restarting can resolve minor glitches or issues that may accumulate during continuous use.
- Feature Enhancements: Updates may introduce new features, improvements, or compatibility with the latest software.
Updating Your Browser:
- Security Fixes: Browser updates often include security fixes to protect against online threats and vulnerabilities.
- Performance Improvements: Updates can bring performance enhancements, making your browsing experience faster and more stable.
- Compatibility: Keeping your browser up to date ensures compatibility with the latest web standards and technologies.
By regularly restarting and updating your computer and browser, you contribute to a more secure and efficient computing environment. Additionally, enabling automatic updates for your operating system and browser can streamline this process and ensure that you stay protected with the latest security features and improvements.
Please contact Koncert Support for any questions at support@koncert.com or 603-952-2505.
NOTE: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a legal advice. Please consult your legal counsel regarding compliance with relevant laws.