> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://it.answeringservicecare.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://it.answeringservicecare.com/it/it-best-practices.md).
# IT Best Practices
Use these standards to prepare browsers, devices, and networks for stable Liberty performance.
{% hint style="info" %}
For best results, validate every workstation before go-live and after any major hardware, browser, or network change.
{% endhint %}
{% hint style="success" %}
Run the **Answering Service Care IT Assessment Test** on the agent workstation before go-live.
[**Launch the Answering Service Care IT Assessment Test**](https://bit.ly/valtool)
{% endhint %}
### Quick checklist
Use this checklist when setting up a new workstation.
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
### Confirm the browser
Use **Google Chrome 132+**.
Allow microphone access and keep `answeringservicecare.com` active in Chrome.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Confirm the workstation
Check CPU, RAM, storage, resolution, and operating system requirements.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Confirm the network
Use wired Ethernet, confirm available bandwidth, and prioritize SIP and WebRTC traffic.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Confirm security and updates
Enable MFA, remove unused users, keep one antivirus product installed, and apply updates outside active call hours.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Detailed references
Use these pages when you need a faster decision on processor approval or remote network setup.
### Browser and power settings
Use **Google Chrome 132+**.
#### Chrome settings
In **Privacy and security** → **Site settings** → **Microphone**:
* Set **Sites can ask to use your microphone**.
* Allow microphone access for Liberty when prompted.
In **Performance**:
* Add `secure.answeringservicecare.com` under **Always keep these sites active**.
In **Extensions**:
* Remove or disable unnecessary Chrome extensions on agent workstations.
If Chrome feels slow, review [Google's Chrome performance guidance](https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/1385029).
#### Prevent Chrome from sleeping
Chrome should remain active during work sessions.
{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Windows" %}
Contact for an administrator script to adjust these settings.
{% endtab %}
{% tab title="Mac" %}
Use these steps to disable **App Nap** for Chrome.
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
### Quit Chrome
Close Chrome with `⌘Q`.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Run the Terminal command
```bash
defaults write com.google.Chrome NSAppSleepDisabled -bool YES
```
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Verify the setting
1. Reopen Chrome.
2. Open **Activity Monitor**.
3. Open the **Energy** tab.
4. Show the **App Nap** column.
5. Confirm Chrome shows **No**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
### Computer requirements
Each workstation should meet these minimum recommendations:
* **Processor**
* `2.0 GHz` minimum
* Intel `i5` or better, `9th generation` or newer
* Minimum `4 cores`
* Apple `M1` or `M2`
* AMD Ryzen `7` or better
* Some Intel and AMD processors with suffixes such as `H`, `F`, `HX`, and `K` can still meet Liberty standards
* Low-power suffixes often found on unapproved processors include `U`, `T`, `Y`, `P`, and `N`
* Confirm the processor class, generation, and core count before you approve the workstation
* For known approved and unapproved examples, see [Workstation Processor Reference](/it/it-best-practices/workstation-processor-reference.md)
* **Memory**
* `16 GB RAM` minimum
* **Storage**
* SSD recommended
* `128 GB` total disk size minimum
* `50 GB` free disk space minimum
* **Resolution**
* `1280x800` minimum
* **IPv6**
* Disable IPv6 when possible
* **Supported operating systems**
* Windows `11` or newer
* macOS `13 Ventura` or newer
{% hint style="warning" %}
Use a supported Windows or macOS computer for Liberty.
Do not use gaming handheld devices or entertainment devices as workstations. This includes devices such as **Nintendo Switch**.
{% endhint %}
#### Validate with the ASC IT Assessment Test
[Open the ASC IT Assessment Test](https://bit.ly/valtool)
Run it:
* before go-live
* after replacing a device
* after major browser, OS, or network changes
* during workstation troubleshooting
{% hint style="warning" %}
Connect the workstation directly to the router with Ethernet.
Turn off Wi-Fi and disconnect any traditional VPN before you start.
{% endhint %}
{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Windows PC" %}
1. Download the Windows version of the assessment tool.
2. Approve any security prompt if one appears.
3. Open the file and run the tool.
4. Enter the full name, email address, and Liberty URL.
5. Select **Generate**.
{% endtab %}
{% tab title="Mac" %}
1. Download the Mac version of the assessment tool.
2. Approve the download in macOS if prompted.
3. Open the file and run the tool.
4. Enter the full name, email address, and Liberty URL.
5. Select **Generate**.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
### Internet connection
Stable voice quality depends on low latency, steady upload capacity, and limited congestion.
#### Network standards
* Use **wired Ethernet** for every workstation.
* Avoid Wi-Fi, satellite, air cards, `LTE/5G`, `MiFi`, traditional VPNs, and Wi-Fi range extenders.
* Always use a **dedicated, private internet connection** for each active agent.
* Never rely on shared or group internet connections for production call handling. This includes dorm-style, apartment, hotel, and community networks.
* Make sure the agent can access the primary modem or router during setup and troubleshooting.
* Provide at least `100 Mbps` download and `10 Mbps` upload **per user**.
* Reserve at least `10 Mbps` for UDP traffic.
{% hint style="info" %}
Traditional VPNs can add latency, jitter, and inspection that disrupt SIP and WebRTC.
If you need extra endpoint controls, use an approach that keeps Liberty traffic direct.
Test browser, SIP, and WebRTC performance before production use.
{% endhint %}
{% hint style="warning" %}
Do not run streaming services during work hours on the same connection. This includes Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and similar traffic.
{% endhint %}
#### QoS recommendations
Prioritize SIP and WebRTC traffic on the router or firewall.
Use these ports:
* `5060` — UDP/TCP SIP signaling
* `5061` — TLS SIP signaling
* `3478` — STUN/TURN
* `16384-32768` — RTP media
For more setup guidance, see [Remote Internet Setup](/it/remote-internet-setup.md).
Recommended Ethernet docks
If the device does not include an Ethernet port, these powered docks are recommended:
* [MOKiN Docking Station](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FCFP8BGB?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_2T0A2TVC93VN8T5SREBG\&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_2T0A2TVC93VN8T5SREBG\&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_2T0A2TVC93VN8T5SREBG\&th=1)
* [WAVLINK USB C Docking Station](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZY4LRDJ?_encoding=UTF8\&ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_YMXKG4H4Z04FFPXW0VBV\&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_YMXKG4H4Z04FFPXW0VBV\&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_YMXKG4H4Z04FFPXW0VBV\&th=1)
* [UGREEN 14 in 1 USB C Docking Station](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DYTVVLH4?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_RQ1M4QN7S4FZ4GF3P54Z\&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_RQ1M4QN7S4FZ4GF3P54Z\&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_RQ1M4QN7S4FZ4GF3P54Z)
Use [Speed Test](https://speed.cloudflare.com/) to confirm the connection meets the required bandwidth.
### Agent workstation standards
Keep each workstation focused on Liberty during active use.
* Use only **one SIP product at a time** on the device.
* Keep browser tabs and background applications to a minimum.
* Use only **one active agent session per device**.
* Use a **wired headset** when possible.
* Use a wired or built-in keyboard with:
* a full number keypad
* a working **Scroll Lock** key
* working function keys
* Use a USB mouse when possible.
Wireless headsets and keyboards are supported, but wired devices are preferred.
### Security and access
#### Multi-factor authentication
Liberty supports MFA for:
* Agents
* Supervisors
* Admins
* Clients
Enable MFA for all users.
{% hint style="success" %}
MFA is one of the simplest ways to reduce account risk across agents, supervisors, admins, and clients.
{% endhint %}
#### User management
Admins should:
* activate new users as needed
* deactivate users who no longer need access
#### Endpoint protection
Use one active commercial antivirus product with current virus definitions.
Do not install more than one antivirus product on the same workstation.
{% hint style="warning" %}
Running multiple antivirus products on one workstation can reduce performance and create conflicts.
{% endhint %}
### System updates
Install OS and browser updates as soon as they are available.
Schedule updates outside active call handling hours.
Set operating system active hours to avoid interruptions during live work.
---
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