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Question

How can I improve my home network performance so I can teach, work, or learn remotely?

Answer

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many companies are offering discounts or temporary enhancements to their services to facilitate improved Internet access. Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to see how they can help. Below are some links for some of the larger national providers.

Another option for Internet service while away from campus would be to sign up for a mobile Internet hotspot device and plan from one of the national providers in the United States. Examples of these providers include AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon. Be advised that data charges will apply and there are limitations to the packages related to cost and bandwidth limits.

In addition, we’ve compiled the following tips:

  • If you do not currently have internet access and are looking for a South Bend area provider see the list of possible options. For those outside the South Bend area, you will need to look at internet providers in your region.
  • If you don’t have internet access to your home or have a weak connection, you can try turning your cell phone into a hotspot and connecting to it. Note: This will use your Data Plan, so check with your cell provider to minimize additional charges.
  • If you have both wired and wireless network options in your home, you’ll experience the best performance using wired; if you can’t connect using wired, choose a workspace close to the wifi router.
  • Everyone in your home uses the same Internet connection. Games and video streaming could especially impact your work. Try downloading videos locally during off-hours and turning off unnecessary network devices during class.
  • Find out your real Internet speed by visiting https://speedtest.net. Click on Go in the center of that page to launch the test. Minimal speed for stable live online teaching and learning is 5 Mbps upload and download speed.
  • Make sure to plug in your computer to make sure your battery doesn’t run out of energy before you finish your class or meeting and for optimal processing speed close unneeded applications.
  • Make sure that you have everything connected, installed and TESTED before you need to use tools that you may not have used previously.

Note: For questions or problems specific to your home network, you’ll need to contact your service provider for assistance.