Use the best Internet connection you can. 

Plan ahead for Zoom meetings, and as often as possible, join Zoom meetings from a location where you can use a fast and reliable Internet connection.

In general WiFi connections are better than cellular (3G/4G/LTE) hotspot connections.

Not all WiFi is the same. Based on your Internet provider, equipment, and the service in your area your bandwidth performance and speeds will vary.

Stay close to the source. The closer you and your device are to the WiFi source the better the experience will be.

How many devices are connected in your house? Are you sharing the WiFi with other users with multiple devices? Are there smart appliances connected to your network?

When you’re in a Zoom session mute your microphone when you're not speaking.

When your microphone is on, Zoom will devote part of your Internet connection to an audio stream for you, even if you are not speaking. Mute your microphone when you do not need it, and you will allow Zoom use your Internet connection more effectively.

Stop your webcam video when you don't need it.

If your teacher is okay with you doing so, start your video only when you need to show yourself on webcam, and stop your video when it isn't needed.

Disable HD webcam video.

Sending high definition (HD) webcam video requires more bandwidth than sending non-HD. Disabling HD video will free up more of your Internet connection for other parts of your Zoom meeting.

From within the Zoom Client:

  1. Click the "Home" tab.

  2. Click " Settings".

  3. In the Settings window that opens:

    1. Click the "Video" tab.

    2. Uncheck "Enable HD".

  4. Close the Settings window.

Close any unneeded applications on your Chromebook.

Zoom meetings can demand significant memory and processing power from your Chromebook. Closing other applications, ones you do not need during the class, will help Zoom run better.

How many Chrome tabs are open? Close out any unneeded tabs that may be using resources.

Avoid other activities that will steal bandwidth.

Don't start other bandwidth-intensive activities during a Zoom meeting. On your device and as much as possible, on any other devices that share your Internet connection avoid the following:

  • Large downloads/uploads

  • Online gaming

  • Streaming video (e.g. Netflix, Hulu, YouTube)

  • Other high-bandwidth activities

Communicate with your teacher!

Each teacher is available through a variety of communication tools. Reach out to them and let them know you are trying to connect with them. Help them by describing the trouble you are having with their Zoom sessions, links or other technology resources.

Report any issues with your service provider

Your service providers may help in providing some troubleshooting for your service and equipment. Be sure to contact them if you’re having connectivity issues or not receiving the bandwidth speeds that you are subscribed to.