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Tips for Optimal A5 Performance

Browser Choice and Network Configuration Make a Difference
Dear Artsystem5 Customer,

We hope this finds each of you, along with your co-workers and loved ones, all well during this challenging time.

As always, we want you to have the best A5 experience possible. To that end, we are sharing some very simple yet powerful Internet-related tips.


CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEB BROWSER: EITHER FIREFOX OR OPERA
 
Popular web browsers are not all alike; each is a sophisticated application with its own unique qualities. Which browser you use will significantly impact A5’s speed and performance. Even A5’s look and feel will be different depending on the browser.

Currently, we recommend OPERA and FIREFOX for best overall performance. CHROME, EXPLORER, and SAFARI do not perform as well with A5. However, as A5 and all browsers are regularly updated, this advice may change. Please check in regularly at www.artsystems.com/requirements for the latest recommendation.


DEDICATE YOUR CHOSEN BROWSER TO A5

We highly recommend using a separate browser application for A5. Also, try to limit the number of open tabs on all open browsers to those currently in use, as open tabs can take up valuable Internet bandwidth and computer memory. Whether you follow this guidance can have a major impact on the performance of any application on your computer, including A5.


CLEAR YOUR BROWSER CACHE OFTEN

Browsers store lots of data and images in their ‘cache’. Working efficiently and protecting your privacy is enhanced significantly by regularly clearing your browser’s cache, ideally before each time you log in to A5.
 
Some browsers can be set to clear their cache automatically upon launch or closing. In addition, you can manually clear the browser cache at any time via the browser settings. To make it easier, there are browser extensions that will place a button on the browser’s navigation bar, allowing you to clear its cache with a simple click.

This Firefox extension will add a broom icon to the browser’s navigation bar.

This Opera extension will add a recycle button to the browser’s navigation bar.


ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR IMPROVING YOUR INTERNET PERFORMANCE:
 

RESTART YOUR ROUTER REGULARLY

One of the simplest ways to improve performance is to reboot (restart) your router at least once a month. You can do this by turning the router off (perhaps by unplugging), waiting 30 seconds, and turning it back on. This gives your device a break and refreshes your Internet connection. You might even want to reboot your router daily, and if you have a separate modem, reboot that too. A simple outlet timer can automate rebooting your router and modem every night to allow start every day with a refreshed connection.


BEWARE OF DATA CAPS

A data cap limits the amount of data you can use every month. Exceed your data limit and your ISP will noticeably restrict your speeds. Check your bill or talk to your provider about your plan to make sure your limit is high enough for your business.
 
REPOSITION YOUR WIFI OR ADD A MESH NETWORK

WiFi is a radio signal, and walls and distance weaken the speed and connection stability, so placing your WiFi tower in a visible line-of-sight is always best. Better yet, install a Mesh Network. Mesh Networks amplify and overlap your WiFi signal by placing multiple mini-towers around the space, and are especially helpful spreading your signal from room to room through lightly constructed walls.
 
ETHERNET BEATS WIFI

WiFi is great, but a Cabled Ethernet connection is always faster than a wireless connection. Also remember that older computers and tablets have older, slower WiFi receivers; increasing your Internet and WiFi speed won’t help if your device doesn’t have the capacity to receive a faster signal.
 
Bonus : Ethernet is automatically more secure than WiFi. If you want to keep your banking information absolutely private, Ethernet is a better way to go.
 
USE AN AD BLOCKER

Internet ads take up serious bandwidth. Installing ad-blocking software frees up bandwidth and increases your speed. Also, no more annoying ads.
 
INSTALL A VIRUS/MALWARE SCANNER

We highly recommend installing anti-virus and malware-scanning software. Viruses or malware lurking on your computer are dangerous to your security and your Internet speed. Once installed, set it to scan for viruses and malware automatically on a regular basis. 

Email support@artsystems.com or call +1 212 620-5500 ext. 2 with any questions. We are on duty 6 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday, New York time (11 am to 11 pm London time).

 
Thank you!

Artsystems Support

Art Systems LLC | www.artsystems.com