Packet loss means data is getting lost along the way; high ping means it's arriving late. Both hurt calls and cloud apps more than low bandwidth does. Test from a wired computer to your router and then to the internet — where the loss starts tells you whether it's WiFi, your network, or your provider.
Common causes
WiFi interference
Crowded channels and weak signal cause lost and resent packets.
Saturated upload
When uploads max out the connection, latency for everything else jumps (bufferbloat).
Bad cable or switch port
Damaged cabling causes errors and dropped packets on wired connections.
Provider line problems
Signal issues on the internet line cause loss before traffic even leaves the building.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
Ping the router
From a computer, run ping -n 50 followed by your router's address. Any loss here is inside your office.
- 2
Ping an internet address
Run ping -n 50 1.1.1.1. If loss appears here but not to the router, it's the modem or provider.
- 3
Compare wired and WiFi
If only WiFi shows loss, focus on access points, channels, and signal.
- 4
Test while the connection is busy
If ping jumps during uploads or backups, enable quality-of-service (SQM/QoS) on the router or schedule heavy uploads after hours.
- 5
Replace suspect cables
Swap patch cables and test different switch ports for wired devices with loss.
When to call a technician
We run longer tests across your network, pinpoint where loss and lag start, and fix it — or hand the provider clear evidence of a line problem.
On-site support across Orange County · see our business networking and WiFi installation services.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good ping for office work?
Under 30–50 ms to common services is good. Video calls start to suffer above about 150 ms or with more than 1% packet loss.
Can fast internet still have high ping?
Yes. Bandwidth and latency are different. A fast connection can still lag if it's congested or has errors.
What is bufferbloat?
It's when a busy connection queues too much data, causing big delays. Router quality-of-service settings can control it.