There are many different ways to stream movies, TV series and live TV. Which is the best for you and your family? What speed do I need? Did you know there’s a way to test and troubleshoot streaming performance. Also, learn how troubleshoot internet streaming. Your quality settings have a lot to do with how much network speed each activity requires.
Ensure you have enough bandwidth if streaming multiple programs. Multi-streaming is a popular live streaming strategy that involves publishing your broadcast to more than one content distribution network (CDN) platform simultaneously. When using these techniques, it’s essential to consider that each additional program you publish adds to your total outgoing bit rate and therefore requires additional bandwidth availability.
Netflix
Download speed recommendations per stream:
3 Megabits per second – DVD quality
5 Megabits per second – HD quality
7-12 Megabits per second – Super HD and 3D quality
Check your connection speed and resolve issues within the Netflix App.
Hulu and Hulu Live TV
Internet download speed recommendations per one device
3 Megabits per second – Recommended for SD quality
5 Megabits per second – Recommended for HD quality
8 Megabits per second – Recommended for Live Streams
There are other requirements for accessing Hulu, Hulu Plus and Hulu Live TV, depending on the device you are using. Refer to the Hulu Subscription Requirements Page.
YouTube TV
3 Megabits per second – Stream SD video.
7 Megabits per second – Stream one-HD video.
13 Megabits per second – Reliably stream HD video
If many devices are streaming videos or using the network at the same time, you may run into buffering issues at the lower speeds. Any issues with video streaming on YouTube TV, try the troubleshooting steps.
Disney Plus
Disney Plus speed requirements mirror the other apps. This app does not offer SD. If your internet connection is below 5 Megabits per second, you might have to deal with some buffering issues when using Disney Plus. Issues with Disney Plus… check troubleshooting steps.
Internal and external factors that affect broadband speeds:
- Multiple devices – It is important to remember that industry guidelines are in reference to one device. Additional household members would require additional bandwidth. Therefore, it’s important to match your broadband plan to all your usage needs.
- Your Home Network and router – (see suggestions below).
- The health of your device – Programs and plug-ins running in the background can blog you down even when they aren’t in use. Make sure all plugins are updated to their latest version. Remove junk files and use an anti-virus program to stay malicious software free.
How to Improve Internet Speeds for Streaming:
There are lots of ways to make sure your devices have the fastest possible internet connection.
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Upgrade your Internet Speed
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- With every new device, streaming app and new technology, it is always good to research to make sure your current speed will handle the new additions. Contact your provider for speed recommendations.
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Upgrade your Router
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- A new or different router may give you a dual option to connect 5GHz & 2.4GHz. 5GHz is generally faster and has less chance of interference from other devices. An upgraded router may give you better range and better signal throughout your home.
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Switch to Ethernet
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- Wi-Fi can be quite slow, especially if multiple people are streaming at once. Ethernet (wired internet) is a lot faster and doesn’t have issues with interference or distance. Though running wires can be annoying, it provides the most reliable connection.
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Move the Router
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- Moving your Wi-Fi router could help a lot. If that’s not an option than adding a Wi-Fi booster or Home Mesh Systems to get more signal throughout the home.
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How Many Devices are Running Simultaneously
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- Think of your internet connection as a pipe full of water. There’s only so much water to go around. If you’re trying to stream in the living room, but the rest of the family is also trying to stream in other rooms, there might not be enough “water” to go around.
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Test your Results
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- After each change you make, test again and see how it affected the signal.
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We hope this blog gave you lots of great information on how to successfully stream in your home. For more information click the links within the blog…. happy streaming!!
‘Connecting Rural Minnesota’
