Network jitter occurs when data packets travel through a network at different speeds and arrive at the end user at different times. All networks experience some delays (known as latency) between the time data gets sent from one source and the time it arrives at another. Jitter is when the latency varies. In other words, some data arrives quickly, and some takes much longer. For mobile users, jitter often results in dropped or delayed class or audio distortion. It can also lead to low quality video, blurred pictures or lost connections during video conferencing or media streaming. It is also a problem for virtual desktops and cloud-based interfaces. Often, jitter is connected to performance-related issues like insufficient bandwidth, poor Wi-Fi connections and outdated hardware. Here is a closer look at what causes network jitter and how companies can deal with it.
What causes jitter?
Jitter comes from different problems in different areas. Although briefly mentioned, let's take a more thorough look at the most notable causes of jitter: network issues, outdated hardware, network traffic congestion, and more.
Network congestion
Network congestion occurs when too many devices are active on the network at the same time. Businesses may experience congestion when they don't have sufficient bandwidth for data-intensive functions like analytics, media streaming, or video calls. Congestion is more common as companies adopt digital operations, but do not update network hardware. If they retain their old network infrastructure, it may not be able to handle the traffic increase, resulting in chronic congestion. Jitter is a common symptom of network congestion. It occurs when there isn't enough bandwidth to send data packets efficiently. The data may have to wait in a queue as routers and gateways try to process all the information. The result is latency variations as data fights to get through these bottlenecks.
Poor network connection
Typical symptoms of poor network connections are videos that continuously buffer, slow downloads, and lag during normal functions. Network administrators can "ping" their networks to test connectivity. This process involves sending data packets and measuring response times. This process can also measure the time it takes one device to communicate with another device on the same network. Jitter may be present if ping tests show variable speeds or intermittent network connections, which can cause data packet delays. Companies can work with their internet service providers (ISPs) to change service packages or add hardware to help increase connectivity.
Hardware issues
Sometimes, the issue behind jitter is simple. Faulty cables, underpowered routers and outdated network interface cards (NICs) on devices can all cause inconsistent connections and slow data transfer. In addition, multiple devices trying to utilize the same frequency band could interfere with the Wi-Fi signal and disrupt connections for other devices. This issue can also occur when devices with Bluetooth or other wireless technologies use the same frequencies as Wi-Fi. Ultimately, this phenomenon comes down to compatibility and interference issues, which ultimately manifests as network jitter. Businesses may encounter this issue when people bring their own devices ("BYOD") to the network. BYOD devices may either lack the proper hardware or configurations to connect to the network or may interfere with other devices already connected to the network. Issues can also arise from poor network planning or insufficient capacity to handle network traffic.
Lack of packet prioritization
Packet prioritization is a network management strategy. It assigns values to different types of data and ensures critical information has the right of way on the network. Also known as quality of service (QoS), it can help network administrators manage traffic with limited resources or bandwidth. Without packet prioritization, all the data on the network has to wait its turn for transmission. Data for functions requiring high speed has to join a queue with all other functions. For instance, video conferencing data could get stuck on the network when database backup systems use all available bandwidth to upload information. The backup is not time-sensitive, but it uses up bandwidth and causes jitter and latency for the video conference.
What is an acceptable amount of jitter on a speed test?
Jitter is not always a problem, even if it occurs. At lower levels, it is not noticeable to device users. During connection tests, jitter is measured in milliseconds (ms). Jitter below 30 ms should not noticeably affect devices connected to the network. Video calls should remain smooth, and audio should be clear and undistorted. Businesses can run internet speed tests to find out if network jitter is within acceptable levels. If it is, the company doesn't need to take action. If jitter rises above 30 ms, the company can opt for fixes that don't require rebuilding the entire network.
How can you fix network jitter?
Companies can take several different approaches to solve jitter issues. In some instances, simple fixes are sufficient. Upgrading ethernet cables and changing device frequencies may solve the problem. A company can work with their ISP to choose a higher-speed service or opt for high-bandwidth connections like Verizon's fully-managed Wavelength Services. Here is a look at the steps a company can take to address network jitter.
Upgrade your ethernet cable
Ethernet predates Wi-Fi. These cables offer a secure internet connection but require users to physically plug devices into the connection using wires. Such connections are impractical for mobile or handheld devices, and they can limit mobility for laptops. Also, laying cables can be expensive and time-consuming when a company needs to connect new devices. All of these challenges can be especially problematic for businesses with large teams or those with little space to lay out these cables. At the same time, ethernet cables offer advantages. Wired networks are more secure because users physically connect to access the data and communicate with other devices. Wired network users have less chance for device interference like on a Wi-Fi connection or encountering weak signals, creating jitter. Ethernet cables also provide consistent bandwidth. Transmission is smooth, and the speeds are predictable and won't change due to external factors. Companies can consider using ethernet connections for important functions such as presentations or video conferences that typically require high bandwidth. Also, companies that already rely on wired connections can consider upgrading to a higher category (Cat). Cat 7a and Cat 8 ethernet cables offer high bandwidth and fast data transfer rates.
Conduct a network speed test
A network speed test detects jitter and determines if poor connections cause latency fluctuations. Network speeds themselves do not cause jitter. However, upload and download speeds should remain consistent throughout the test. If they change noticeably, it could be a sign of network problems that could cause jitter. Consistently low speeds might indicate congestion or connection problems. Both of these issues can contribute to jitter. Solving connection problems with the help of an ISP can increase speed and network performance in addition to decreasing jitter.
Prioritize packets
New network traffic management strategies can help reduce jitter on networks. As mentioned, packet prioritization is one of the most effective methods for dealing with jitter. Network administrators can prioritize packets of data needed for important functions and assign secondary status to data that is not time-sensitive or does not require large amounts of bandwidth. For instance, if video conferencing or internet voice calls are important to a company, business leaders can use packet prioritization to give data needed for these functions. Other data waits in a queue until bandwidth is available.
Avoid device updates during business hours
Updating important hardware or software is necessary to keep a network secure and functional. However, many updates require large amounts of bandwidth. If these updates happen during a busy period, such as the middle of a business day, they can slow down the entire network and cause delays in sending vital data packets through the network. The solution is to schedule updates outside of normal business hours. During these times, bandwidth isn't needed for critical tasks. Not only will this reduce network jitter during business hours, but it will allow updates to happen more quickly. The software can upload and install without having to compete with other data packets on the network.
Limit users
Network congestion can sometimes be due to an excessive number of users. In a business, this problem can arise when employees connect to the network with multiple devices or use their work connection for personal tasks. The resulting congestion on the network can lead to jitter as users compete for limited bandwidth. Instead of increasing bandwidth, a company can first try to limit users. This step could involve barring personal devices from the network, limiting remote access to work-specific tasks, and keeping employees from sharing the network with non-employees. Verifying the removal of access for contractors or former employees may also help free up bandwidth. In some cases, this solution won't be feasible. Employees need remote network access and connections for multiple devices to perform their jobs effectively. In these instances, other solutions are usually necessary.
Upgrade your router
From time to time, businesses will have to prioritize hardware improvements to maximize network performance. New routers are an example of this type of improvement. Upgrades can bring more powerful processors and more memory to the network. These give routers the ability to overcome issues that cause jitter. These new devices can handle more device connections and reduce bottlenecks and data queues by routing information faster. Today's best routers also have QoS features. They can effectively prioritize data packets and ensure critical functions have the bandwidth needed for jitter-free performance. While routers can maximize network performance, the speed and bandwidth will still be limited to what your internet service plan allows.
Utilize a jitter buffer
A jitter buffer is VoLTE implemented in the software running on the user's equipment. Instead of immediately releasing them, it holds the information for a very short time before releasing it to the end user. This small delay can smooth out the delivery of the audio or video. For example, static jitter buffers operate at one speed. The delay and release of data happen at regular intervals. If jitter is within a specific range, these tools are sufficient. On the other hand, dynamic jitter buffers can adjust performance based on certain network conditions. These systems can change the speed and amount of data released to the user. The goal is to provide the same experience to the user regardless of the amount of jitter in the network.
Change the source of your wireless network
Network setup and parameters can like QoS, can help mitigate jitter issues and ensure a good user experience. Network administrators can change the source of their wireless network by reconfiguring a router or placing it in a different location. In addition to changing locations so that users can get a stronger Wi-Fi signal, the IT team at a business might also change Wi-Fi channels or deploy dual-band routers that transmit at both 2.4 and 5 GHz. These changes can reduce the interference and connectivity problems that cause jitter. Other options could include upgrading to a 6 GHz router or opting for a network-as-a-service (NaaS) solution. NaaS providers offer monitoring and tools to overcome problems like jitter. Network jitter can be problematic for today's connected and data-reliant businesses. If a company experiences this problem, it has many options to improve connections. Hardware upgrades, jitter buffers and administrative changes can push jitter down to acceptable levels so that it does not interfere with business operations.
