Latest news with #latency
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
I Work 100% Remotely With AT&T Fiber's Cheapest Plan: Here's My Secret to Fast, Uninterrupted Internet
If there's anything I've learned about internet in the past year I've been reviewing internet providers, it's that fast speeds are actually not the most important part of a good internet plan. Most of us won't be able to tell the difference between 400Mbps and 1,000Mbps. What we do pick up on, however, is latency or lag. When it comes to working remotely, low latency is key to getting through the day without interruption. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost your connection while trying to download or upload documents, high latency may be the culprit. I'm all for saving money on monthly bills. That's why I signed up for AT&T Fiber's cheapest internet plan, and despite several attempts from AT&T's customer service to get me to upgrade, I know I'll be sticking with this plan for a while. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more on average for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping or throw out your router, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own, just like I did. Before I started working remotely in my home office, I took these steps to make sure my Wi-Fi wouldn't drop out while I was uploading documents or joining a call, and I've rarely experienced any outages or lag, even with 300Mbps of speed. Here's everything you need to know to improve your home network (but were too afraid to ask). Locating local internet providers 1. Test your internet connection The first step to diagnosing and boosting your internet is running a simple speed test. Speed tests are an easy (and free) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably due for a router upgrade. How much speed does remote work require? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. At any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online in my home simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps is more than enough speed for me. 2. Pick a better internet plan When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" Here are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. Upload speeds are important While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet typically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet. Latency Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. 3. Optimize your router placement Routers and cables aren't the prettiest tech, and they tend to clutter up space, so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally, as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls, or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. My router is located just near my desk, on a shelf, where I can take full advantage of those Wi-Fi frequency bands. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or you rent from your ISP, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. 4. Use an Ethernet connection The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. 5. Learn how to switch Wi-Fi frequency bands Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. 6. Use a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Other considerations for remote work Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Use a VPN Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. Utilize IT or tech support If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Invest in an ergonomic work setup Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought this one from Amazon for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using cable covers or ties is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. Bottom line You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Harmonic Transforms Broadband Connectivity Experience Through Collaboration with CUJO AI
Advanced Integration Enables Exceptional Broadband Experiences for Latency-Sensitive Interactive Applications SAN JOSE, Calif., June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Harmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT) today announced a collaboration to integrate CUJO AI® network intelligence software with Harmonic's market-leading cOS™ virtualized broadband platform. This advanced integration transforms broadband connectivity experiences for latency-sensitive interactive applications such as online gaming and video conferencing, empowering operators to deliver an exceptional, real-time quality of experience to subscribers. Harmonic and CUJO AI will showcase the new solution through a live, ultra-low-lag video conferencing demonstration at ANGA COM 2025. "This integration brings to life a shared vision of adaptive, real-time connectivity that meets the evolving demands of modern households. Together with Harmonic, we're making ultra-low-latency broadband a reality — not just for the few, but at scale," said Remko Vos, CEO at CUJO AI. The powerful solution combines robust, field-proven Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable throughput (L4S) capabilities enabled by Harmonic's cOS platform with CUJO AI's network intelligence software running on BoostD 3.1 modems. The solution enables real-time detection and end-to-end prioritization of latency-sensitive applications. The Harmonic cOS platform enabled with CUJO AI software provides a seamless, low-latency broadband experience for subscribers while empowering operators to reduce churn, boost retention, improve ARPU and economically attract new subscribers through a uniquely differentiated offering. Harmonic's cOS core software enables operators to activate the new L4S capabilities across existing DOCSIS and fiber networks via a simple software upgrade, eliminating the need for major infrastructure investments. Moreover, the integration between Harmonic's cOS platform and CUJO AI harnesses the benefits of L4S-ready networks for latency-sensitive applications that may not be L4S compatible. "Our integration of CUJO AI on the cOS platform is a firm step forward on the path to adaptive, self-optimizing broadband networks that elevate the subscriber experience beyond reliability and speed," said Asaf Matatyaou, senior vice president, product, Broadband Business at Harmonic. "By harnessing the power of L4S technology and CUJO AI's network intelligence software, we are simplifying network performance enhancement for operators so they can cost-effectively elevate the subscriber experience — with a simple software upgrade." Harmonic will demonstrate the integration of CUJO AI network intelligence software on the cOS platform at ANGA COM, June 3-5 in Cologne, Germany in hall 8, stand C35. To see the demo and schedule a meeting with Harmonic, visit Harmonic's market-leading cOS platform powers next-gen broadband services through more than 33 million customer premises equipment (CPE) devices worldwide for leading operators in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. To learn more about Harmonic's broadband solutions, visit About HarmonicHarmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT), the worldwide leader in virtualized broadband and video delivery solutions, enables media companies and service providers to deliver ultra-high-quality video streaming and broadcast services to consumers globally. The company revolutionized broadband networking via the industry's first virtualized broadband solution, enabling operators to more flexibly deploy gigabit internet services to consumers' homes and mobile devices. Whether simplifying OTT video delivery via innovative cloud and software platforms, or powering the delivery of gigabit internet services, Harmonic is changing the way media companies and service providers monetize live and on-demand content on every screen. More information is available at Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Statements concerning Harmonic's business and the anticipated capabilities, advantages, reliability, efficiency, market acceptance, market growth, specifications and benefits of Harmonic products, services and technology are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our current expectations and beliefs and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties more fully described in Harmonic's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and its Current Reports on Form 8-K. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Harmonic as of the date hereof, and Harmonic disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. Harmonic, the Harmonic logo and other Harmonic marks are owned by Harmonic Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Harmonic Inc. Sign in to access your portfolio
