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It can be frustrating when your internet speed test shows fast results, but your video calls lag or freeze. This problem often confuses many users who expect smooth video calls with a good internet connection.

There are several reasons why this happens, and most of them are easy to fix. Understanding the cause will help you solve the issue quickly.

In this guide, we will explore simple and effective ways to improve your video call quality on Windows 11, even when your internet speed seems fine.

Follow the steps carefully, and you should notice a big improvement in your video call experience.

Quick Note: Before You Start

• Make sure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. Updates often fix bugs that affect internet and app performance.
• Check that your video call app (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, etc.) is updated to the newest version.
• Restart your computer and router before troubleshooting. Sometimes, a simple restart resolves temporary glitches.
• Close other heavy internet-using applications like downloads or streaming apps during video calls.

Step 1: Test Your Internet Speed and Stability

Even if your internet speed test shows a fast number, stability matters more for video calls. A fluctuating connection can cause lag or poor video quality.

1. Go to Speedtest.net and run a speed test.
2. Look at both the download and upload speeds. Video calls need good upload speed, usually at least 1 Mbps for standard quality.
3. Run the test multiple times to check consistency. If speeds vary a lot, your connection might be unstable.

Why this matters: High speed alone does not guarantee smooth video calls. Consistent upload speed and low latency (ping) are key.

Step 2: Change Your Network Adapter Settings

Windows 11 sometimes uses power-saving features that reduce network performance. Adjusting these settings can improve video call quality.

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters section.
3. Right-click your active network adapter (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
4. Go to the Power Management tab.
5. Uncheck the box that says “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
6. Click OK to save changes.

Why this matters: Preventing Windows from powering down your network adapter keeps your connection stable during video calls.

Step 3: Disable Background Apps Using Bandwidth

Other apps may be using your internet without you knowing, causing slow video calls.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Processes tab.
3. Look for apps that use a lot of network bandwidth (check the Network column).
4. Right-click those apps and choose End Task if they are not important.

Why this matters: Freeing bandwidth allows your video call app to use more internet resources, improving call quality.

Step 4: Adjust Video Call App Settings

Many video call applications have settings to manage video quality and bandwidth usage.

1. Open your video call app’s settings or preferences.
2. Find video or bandwidth settings.
3. Lower video resolution or enable options like “Limit bandwidth” if available.
4. Disable HD video if your connection struggles with high-quality streams.

Why this matters: Lowering video quality reduces data usage and helps keep the call smooth, especially on limited or unstable connections.

Step 5: Reset Network Settings

If the above steps don’t help, resetting your network settings can clear misconfigurations.

1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet > Status.
3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
4. Click Reset now and confirm.
5. Your PC will restart and reset all network adapters and settings.

Why this matters: Network reset restores default settings and can fix hidden issues causing slow video call performance.

Alternative and Advanced Options

• Use Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi: Wired connections are more stable and faster than wireless.
• Change DNS servers: Using public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) can improve speed and reliability.
• Check router QoS settings: Some routers allow prioritizing video call traffic to improve performance.
• Update network adapter drivers: Outdated drivers can cause connection problems. Visit your adapter manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why does my internet speed test show good speed but video calls lag?

A: Speed tests measure download/upload speed at a given moment. Video calls require stable upload speed and low latency, which speed tests may not fully reveal.

Q: Can my antivirus or firewall affect video calls?

A: Yes, some security software may block or slow down video call apps. Try temporarily disabling them to test if they are the cause.

Q: Does the number of people on my Wi-Fi affect call quality?

A: Yes, many devices connected at once share the bandwidth, reducing availability for your video calls.

Q: Are all video call apps equally demanding on bandwidth?

A: No, some apps use more bandwidth or have different optimization levels. Trying another app may improve your experience.

Q: How much upload speed do I need for HD video calls?

A: Typically, 3 Mbps upload speed is recommended for HD video calls.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your video calls are still slow, consider these final options:

• Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to check if there are issues with your connection.
• Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 network issues: support.microsoft.com/windows.
• Use built-in Windows Network Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network troubleshooter.
• Consider upgrading your internet plan if your upload speed is too low for your needs.

Conclusion

Fast internet speed does not always guarantee smooth video calls on Windows 11. Understanding the difference between speed, stability, and bandwidth usage is essential. By following these simple steps—from checking your connection stability to adjusting app settings and resetting your network—you can greatly improve video call quality.

Remember to keep your system and apps updated, manage background internet usage, and consider advanced options if needed. With patience and these tips, your video calls should become more reliable and enjoyable.