Zoom connectivity issues

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Zoom connectivity issues

Hi everyone,

I am working from home and have to use Zoom very regularly for work conference calls (I can't use a different platform). I am having some serious issues with connectivity when doing this, particularly later in the afternoon (3pm onwards). This usually involves Zoom saying 'your connection is unstable' and then lots of buffering (and sometimes me, and even the person I'm speaking to, are kicked out).

A few more details:

- I am using a MacBook Air with macOS Catalina Version 10.15.6

- I am using the Zoom app for Mac

- I recently upgraded to Sky Superfast Broadband, as I was worried it might be a wifi speed issue, but the problem still remains. I have now upgaded to Sky Ultrafast just in case!

- I have done everything I can / know of to resolve any wifi issues causing the problem i.e. moved the router into the middle of the living room, moved my workspace right next to the router with no obstacles in between

I have figured this is either a problem with a) my macbook, b) the wifi, c) potentially Zoom, though colleagues do not have the same problem. Does anyone have any advice as to how to resolve this issue as I am often having to lead these meetings / share screen / present, and it is causing a huge amount of stress, frustration and embarassment.

I have considered trying to plug my laptop into an ethernet cable, but am not too sure how to do this - so if this is a potential solution, please could you advise how (and would wifi still work throughout the house?) Equally - really appreciate any advice, but if you could offer it using simple technology terms, that would be helpful, as I have a very limited understanding of how all of this works!

Many thanks in advance 🙂

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Oct 22, 2020 8:41 AM

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Answer 1

Oct 22, 2020 11:42 AM in response to Elj53

I don't think this is a Mac issue as such and given the time stated it sounds like heavy usage for internet service in your local area that's possibly doing it? I suspect that's the time when most children are getting into their social media circus thing. Chatting about where they've just been (school) and who with most likely? Not to mention online multi-player gaming, you-tubing and other online streaming services that young people do and use.

I would not rule out the possibility of it being a problem with Zoom itself. I would check on their forums and see if their's a solution there as well.

Just in case it has nothing to do with any of that try moving yourself as close as you can to your Wi-Fi router. Check your internet download speeds. There are lots of online tools you can use to do this with. You should be aiming for no less than 2MB and ideally 3MB or more. Which is what I generally get where I live out in the country. It's generally better in larger towns and cities.

I use Zoom and Teams and avoid the afternoon as much as I can for the same reasons. Try moving your Zoom meetings to earlier in the day. Mid morning and lunchtimes are generally best for me for where I am in the world.

Good luck.

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Zoom connectivity issues

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