Working from home can be a great arrangement, allowing flexibility and saving commute time. However, when you’ve got kids at home as well, staying productive can be a real challenge, especially when they are online watching videos, playing games, or doing distance learning. Here are some tips to help you get work done even when the kids are hogging all the bandwidth.
Monitor Internet Usage and Set Limits
The first step is to get a handle on just how much bandwidth your kids are actually using. Install an app on your router that allows you to view current bandwidth usage and track it over time. This will show you when usage is spiking so you can identify the bandwidth hogs.
You can then set limits on your kids’ devices to cap how much data they can use. On iOS, go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits. On Android, use the Digital Wellbeing settings. You can also restrict what times of day they can access certain apps and websites. Getting their usage under control will free up bandwidth for you.
Prioritize Devices
Many routers allow you to prioritize certain devices over others. Place your work computer at the top so that you get first dibs on bandwidth. Phones and tablets used for entertainment go lower. This ensures that even when the network is congested, your work will still get through. Just beware that this could impact video calls, so tweak priorities as needed.
Use Ethernet Whenever Possible
For the most reliable connectivity, use a wired Ethernet connection for your work device rather than Wi-Fi. This takes your computer out of the scrabble for wireless bandwidth completely. Get an Ethernet switch to add more ports if needed. Just take care to keep the cable out of the way of kids and pets.
Optimize Your Video Calls
Video calls eat up a ton of bandwidth. When you need to take or make video calls, close any other bandwidth-hogging apps and ask others in the house to get off the network. Also use built-in options to adjust video quality. Turning down to 720p instead of 1080p can help. And stay close to your router.
Schedule Blocks of Time
Sit down as a family and work out a schedule for bandwidth usage. Give each person blocks of high-priority time where others agree to stay off the network. Honor the schedule to protect your work time. Just be sure to allow time for kids’ online learning and play too.
Upgrade Your Internet Plan
If all else fails, it may be time to upgrade to an internet plan with higher speeds. Shop around for the best deal to get the bandwidth boost you need. While pricier, it may be worth it to maintain productivity and keep family friction down.
Getting work done from home amid kids’ bandwidth usage takes some planning and compromise. But with the right limits, priorities, and schedule, you can stay productive even when bandwidth is maxed out. Be patient, take breaks when needed, and remind the kids that your job helps support the family – and pays for that bandwidth they are gobbling up!
