Network Requirements
Quick tips
- Check your connection via speedtest.net. We recommend a minimum speed of 10 Mbps for download and 5 Mbps for upload.
- Close all other programs and tabs, so your device can use all resources for your SIRIUS session.
- Position yourself as close as possible to the router (in the same room).
- Use an ethernet cable for a faster and more stable connection.
Required Speed
SIRIUS is based on
WebRTC, a framework that uses peer to peer (p2p) connections and MESH networking. This type of connection sends audio and video streams directly between two or more user devices. This is a great way to send data for smaller groups, but requires a fast Internet connection and minimal latency. The more users participate in the video session, the more bandwidth and higher internet speed is required.
In general: the higher the internet speed, the better quality of video and audio you receive.
Currently, we don't have a way to measure exactly what the required connection speed is between each participant, but
we recommend a minimum speed of 10 Mbps for download and 5 Mbps for upload. Check your connection via
speedtest.net.
Example of the speed test with values for download and upload speed:
Poor WiFi connections are the main cause of quality and connection problems with SIRIUS, so we recommend using an ethernet cable that connects your end device directly to the Internet router. For smartphones & tablets, please use an appropriate adapter to connect the device to the ethernet cable. If you use an ethernet cable, make sure that WiFi function on the end device is deactivated.
If you rely on WiFi, please position yourself as close as possible to the router (in the same room). All other programs and tabs in the browser should be closed and nothing should be downloaded or streamed at the same time (no YouTube, Netflix, etc.).
Latency
For latency, you will want to make sure that the latency on your network is less than 100 ms for best results. Up to 400 ms is acceptable, but not ideal for high-quality video sessions. You can check your latency by performing a ping test via speedtest.net.
Example of the speed test with the ping value:
Network Configuration & Security
Firewall
If you or your institution uses a firewall, you may experience connection problems depending on your firewall settings. For a smooth experience, we recommend:
- opening port 443 for outgoing traffic for both TCP and UDP.
- Additionally, outgoing traffic should be direct if possible and not sent through a proxy.
VPN
We do not recommend using SIRIUS with a VPN. Because our system is a peer to peer service, an inconsistent IP address can cause problems connecting to rooms or to specific participants in the room. We recommend disabling your VPN during a SIRIUS video session and turn it back on after finishing the video session.