Resolving Slow Upload Speeds on Mesh Networks During Video Calls

Video calls have become a staple for work, family catch-ups, and virtual meetings, relying heavily on a stable internet connection. If you’re using a mesh Wi-Fi system and notice slow upload speeds during these calls—leading to lagging video, frozen screens, or dropped connections—it can disrupt your day. This issue often stems from network congestion, improper node placement, or bandwidth competition within your mesh setup. With over two decades as an IT expert, I’ve helped countless users tackle this problem, and I’m here to share clear, actionable steps to boost your upload speeds and ensure smooth video calls on your mesh network.

Mesh systems distribute Wi-Fi across multiple nodes, which is great for coverage but can struggle with upload-heavy tasks like video calls if not optimized. Upload speed is critical here, as it sends your video and audio to the other party. Let’s walk through a straightforward process to identify and fix the slowdown.

Why Upload Speeds Slow Down During Video Calls

Slow uploads on a mesh network during video calls can result from:

Bandwidth sharing: Multiple devices (e.g., streaming TVs or gaming consoles) compete for the same upload capacity.
Node distance: A node far from the main router may have weaker backhaul, reducing upload performance.
Interference: Nearby electronics or neighboring networks can clog the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands.
QoS settings: Lack of prioritization for video call traffic can let other data take precedence.

Understanding these factors helps us target the right fixes. Here’s how to resolve the issue step by step.

Step-by-Step Guide to Improve Upload Speeds

Follow these practical steps to enhance upload performance for video calls on your mesh network. Each step is designed for easy execution, even without deep technical knowledge.

Step 1: Test Your Current Upload Speed

Start by measuring your baseline to identify the problem.

Use a speed test: Open a browser on the device you use for calls (e.g., laptop or phone) and visit a site like Speedtest.net. Run the test while connected to the mesh network.
Focus on upload: Note the upload speed (e.g., 2 Mbps is typical minimum for video calls; 5-10 Mbps is ideal for HD).
Test during calls: Repeat the test while on a video call to see the real-time impact. If it drops significantly, proceed with adjustments.

Step 2: Check Device and Network Load

High usage can choke upload bandwidth.

List connected devices: Open your mesh app (e.g., Eero, Netgear Orbi) and see how many devices are online. Look for heavy users like 4K streamers or file uploaders.
Pause non-essential devices: Turn off or pause devices not in use (e.g., smart TVs, IoT gadgets) during calls.
Test again: Run another speed test to check if upload improves.

Step 3: Optimize Node Placement

Poor node positioning can weaken the backhaul, affecting upload speeds.

Locate the node: Identify the node serving your call device (check the mesh app’s node map).
Reduce distance: Move the node closer to the main router or the device (within 10-15 feet), avoiding walls or metal objects.
Elevate it: Place the node higher (e.g., on a shelf) to improve signal strength.
Retest: Use the speed test during a call to confirm better upload speeds.

Step 4: Prioritize Video Call Traffic with QoS

Quality of Service (QoS) settings can reserve bandwidth for calls.

Access QoS settings: In the mesh app, look for “QoS,” “Traffic Prioritization,” or “Device Priority.”
Add your device: Select the device used for calls (e.g., laptop) and set it to high priority or the top slot.
Save and test: Apply the changes, restart the node if prompted, and run a speed test during a call to verify improvement.

Step 5: Switch to the 5 GHz Band

The 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but shorter range, which can help uploads.

Check band support: Ensure your call device supports 5 GHz (most modern laptops and phones do).
Select the band: In the device’s Wi-Fi settings, connect to the 5 GHz network (e.g., “Network-5G”) if your mesh separates bands. If combined, use the app to force 5 GHz for that device.
Positioning tip: Stay within 10-15 feet of the node, as 5 GHz weakens with distance.
Test upload: Run a speed test to confirm higher upload rates.

Step 6: Change Wi-Fi Channels

Interference from neighboring networks can slow uploads.

Scan for interference: Use the mesh app or a tool like WiFi Analyzer to see which channels are crowded (e.g., channels 6 or 11 on 2.4 GHz).
Adjust channel: In the app or router settings (e.g., 192.168.1.1), set the 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz band to a less congested channel (e.g., 1 or 36).
Save and retest: Apply the change, wait for the network to stabilize, and test upload speed during a call.

Step 7: Update Firmware

Outdated firmware can limit performance.

Check for updates: Open the mesh app and look for firmware updates for the router and nodes. Install any available updates.
Restart: Reboot the system after updating and wait 2-3 minutes.
Test again: Run a speed test to ensure upload speeds improve.

Step 8: Contact Your ISP if Needed

If speeds remain slow, the issue might be with your internet plan.

Check plan details: Log into your internet provider’s account to confirm your upload speed limit (e.g., 10 Mbps on a typical plan).
Request support: Call your ISP to test the line or upgrade your plan if upload speeds are below call requirements.
Monitor: After any changes, retest during a call.

Preventing Future Slowdowns

Schedule calls: Avoid peak usage times (e.g., evenings) when other devices are active.
Limit background apps: Close unused apps on your call device to free up bandwidth.
Regular checks: Reassess node placement and QoS settings monthly.

Learn More with My Book

For a deeper dive into optimizing mesh networks for high-demand tasks like video calls, explore my book, Wi-Fi Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide to Mesh Networks. It provides detailed guidance in plain language to maximize your Wi-Fi performance. Get your copy on Amazon today and enjoy seamless connections! Buy now on Amazon