League Policies
All online tournament participants must have a stable internet connection. Broadband connections with unlimited data work best for video-integrated platforms. The speed and quality of the connection are more important than the age, speed, or model of device used. We encourage all participants, but especially competitors, to review the best practices below and to implement any that are feasible to improve their connection to the tournament platform.
- Know how the router works and learn how to optimize its performance by reading any tips available in the user manual or online.
- Know how to assess the router’s status and reset it if necessary.
- Check the manufacturer’s website for any available firmware updates and install those.
- Prior to each tournament, restart the router after unplugging it for at least ten minutes. This will clear it of interference from any stale connections.
- If possible, connect directly to the router using an ethernet cable rather than connecting through Wi-Fi. Direct connections are far more stable than wireless connections.
- If connecting through an ethernet cable is not feasible, move as close as possible to the router. Avoid major obstacles such as thick walls, bookcases, or appliances between a device and the router.
- Test the internet connection speed in the area(s) where a device will be connected. Speed tests are available through browsers and online sites. If the speed test indicates that the connection speed is slow, take steps to improve the speed.
- Consider purchasing signal boosters to help strengthen weak Wi-Fi signals in areas of the home that must be used for competition. Most internet service providers offer these devices.
- Minimize the number of nonessential devices and apps using the same router during the tournament. Routers handle connections on a first-come-first-serve basis and maintaining a stable video connection will require plenty of room in the traffic lanes passing through your router. Consider disconnecting smart phones from Wi-Fi and make sure other users, not actively participating in the tournament, avoid high data usage activities such as streaming video.