What's the best way to test for packet loss while playing casino games?

So first, you check on sites such as Speedtest.net or Fast.com. Latency and jitter numbers should be low. Second, run a ping test against your server. Use a command prompt and enter “ping [server IP] -n 100” and take the average. If packet loss is high, there will be problems. Third, install a network monitoring tool (such as PRTG or Wireshark) to actively track packets during gameplay. Ask the dealers and players to do a video/voice test before they start playing to be able to detect lag. Last but not least, look at the server log to see how many bets are delayed. If this increases, something’s wrong. A competent hosting provider will provide you with these tests and more. Also, test it on a real network, not just on a stable one. Packet loss kills live dealer tables. Watch out!

Before testing with live dealers, you can test latency by pinging the casino server’s IP address using a program like PingPlotter or iPerf (both can also measure packet loss). And you can do a simple broadband test via a site such as Speedtest.net. Live dealer tests should be done during idle time, so that you can get an idea of what the real-world latency will be. If possible, ensure that live dealer traffic is on its own, dedicated internet connection, rather than sharing bandwidth with other applications. Finally, ask dealers and your IT team to take a couple of minutes at the beginning of every day to “ping” the IP address and ensure that no connectivity problems have arisen. Better safe than sorry.

You can pre-test latency and packet loss rates with a tool such as PingTest or Traceroute. You can check up-/download/upload speeds with a speed test. You could also ask your hosting provider to share live network metrics. Tell players to run tests, most browsers offer inbuilt monitoring tools. Ensure there’s an active chat channel where they can report lag. Regular testing will keep the game running smoothly.

Second, use ping tests or traceroutes prior to playing. Both can identify any delay or packet loss. Make sure your network connection is reliable and that you have a consistent bandwidth. Try playing another simpler game, like Roulette or Blackjack, to make sure your internet connection isn’t lagging or cutting out. In short, keep your system clear and check for problems in advance; this way, you don’t needlessly lose while the game is in play.

Packet loss kills live casinos. Before play begins, I check my Internet speed with tools such as SpeedTest or MTR (Merkle-Tuttle-Ross), running ping tests and monitoring the results every few seconds. I also test at peak usage times to see how the game holds up. All live-casino systems have a network-status panel – make sure you know where it is!