How to Diagnose and Fix VPS Packet Loss

Packet loss causes slow page loads, flaky connections and choppy video. Diagnosing it starts with locating which segment is at fault.

1. Locate with mtr first

Run mtr server-ip from local to server, then from server to local (both directions). See where loss begins:

• Loss at the first hop: local network or router;
• Loss mid-path but not at the end: usually a router rate-limiting ICMP, minor impact;
• Persistent loss at the end: server side or data-center line.

2. Common causes and fixes

• Bandwidth saturated: upgrade bandwidth or cap per-connection rate;
• Line congestion: peak-hour detours — consider an optimized line;
• High server load: maxed CPU/RAM can look like loss — check processes;
• Under attack: abnormal traffic causing loss — see the DDoS guide.

3. When to contact the provider

If it's confirmed a line issue from the data center to your region, send mtr screenshots to 00Shark support and we'll help investigate.