# Conference call tips ### Best settings for a room ``` Q: best allround settings? A: ....(limit 6 active speakers thru owner_only_broadcast) Q: time-critical event with minimal delay? A: ....(enable livestreaming) ``` ### Test the following before a conference * Test your camera and mic * Use an updated browser, preferably Chrome * Check that your browser has access to your camera and/or mic * Connect to a stable network, preferably through an ethernet cable, especially if you are using an older device * Use headphones or a headset to prevent background noise and audio feedback You can run a test at https://test.webrtc.org to diagnose any problems before you get started. ### Solving issues **Asks these questions first** * Can others not hear and/or see you? * Are you using an ad blocker, or do you have any browser extensions installed? * These might block access to your camera. Try opening an Incognito window (that bypasses the extensions). * Your browser may not be set to the correct mic settings. * Can you not hear others? * Check that your audio is routed to the correct speaker or headphones. * Are you using Windows? Mac? Linux? Chromebook? * Do you / your company use a [VPN](https://cybernews.com/what-is-vpn/#how-does-a-vpn-work)? (if so, contact IT department) **The following steps solve most issues with video meetings:** - Reload your browser. - Try using an Incognito window, or Private mode. - Quit and reopen your browser. (On a Mac, hold Command (or Cmd) ⌘ + Q for a few seconds to quit Chrome.) - Make sure other apps aren't using your camera/mic. (For example, another video or conferencing product.) **If those steps don't work:** - Try another browser (we suggest Chrome). - Reboot your computer. - These steps also can help: - Close down background apps that might be using Internet, like Dropbox - Try another computer or mobile device. - Try a different network. ### Choppy video/audio? Experiencing packet loss? Packet loss is different from your speed test or download speed. Packet loss reflects UDP data, which is the data transmitted when you stream live media. When streaming live media, network issues often relate to an OS-level root cause. That's why, if you're having issues, rebooting often is a smart thing to try. Video calls need a good connection. Because a video call streams live media, having a fast internet connection is not enough. It's not unusual for a caller to have a great network, but experience packet loss on a call. Network congestion, firewall barriers, and/or old or affected hardware (like a router that needs rebooting) can play a role. **If you're seeing packet loss, during your call try:** - Do you or your company use a [VPN](https://cybernews.com/what-is-vpn/#how-does-a-vpn-work)?** - Rebooting your computer - Moving closer to your WiFi router - Connecting via Ethernet, or switching to a 5G network if possible - Limiting background tasks and close any applications that use up internet resources, like Dropbox - While it's not ideal, try switching off the camera **Do you / your company use a [VPN](https://cybernews.com/what-is-vpn/#how-does-a-vpn-work)?** This means your IT department is responsible for delivering a good network connection to the internet (groundcontrol.app). Contact them upfront and discuss/test before starting the actual webconference. **Do you need to unblock your camera?** To unblock your camera/mic in Chrome, follow these steps: - Type `⌘` + `,` on a Mac, or navigate to the three dots at the top right of your browser to open up the settings menu - Navigate to Privacy and settings - Navigate to Permissions and click on the camera icon - Make sure the Ask before accessing toggle is toggled to the right - Refresh your browser **Do you need to check for Windows updates?** This [Lifewire article](https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-check-for-install-windows-updates-2624596) is helpful.