Wi-Fi problems while streaming can be a pain, especially if you’re paying for a high-quality stream. We explain why Wi-Fi cuts out during streaming and what to do about it.
Common Reasons Wi-Fi Dropped During Streaming:
1. The 2.4 GHz Frequency Interference
In many cases, too many devices connected can result in interference, especially on the 2.4 GHz band. This band is more crowded and prone to disruptions from other devices like:
- TV Wi-Fi Adapters: However, the use of the 2.4 GHz frequency and the same radio bandwidth by older adapters, can lead to the interference from other devices on the same network.
- Bluetooth Devices: But your Wi-Fi signal can get confused and jammed up by other speakers, remotes, and other Bluetooth devices around you.
Alternatively, that 5 GHz frequency is usually faster and less crowded to decrease interference.
2. High Bandwidth Consumption
High quality video demands more bandwidth. For watching 4K content, you will need at least 25 Mbps. Problems can arise if:
- Your Internet Connection Is Limited: Adding streaming can clog your network with a slower connection.
- Multiple Devices Are Using Bandwidth: Streaming or downloading on phones, laptops etc can reduce bandwidth for streaming.
To get around this, if possible, prioritize streaming by pausing other high bandwidth activity or bumping up your internet plan if you need to.
3. Device-Specific Issues
But sometimes it’s the device itself that creates the connection problem. Your streaming device might have:
- Outdated Firmware: Check that your TV or streaming device have up to date firmware.
- Software Conflicts: Unofficial app can slow down the network.
- Malware or Viruses: It’s a virus, so it can slow down your connectivity, so run a scan for malware regularly.
Make sure your device’s software is up to date, as well as use a trusted antivirus and your device will stream without any issues.
4. Network Saturation
Wi-Fi congestions might be major problem especially if connected with a single router or Wi-Fi extender on a network too many devices. Network saturation is more common in:
- Dense Networks: In the case that many devices are already connected, plot out deleting the ones not in use.
- Wi-Fi Extender Connections: If the TV is connected to a repeater then you can also feel the weakness in connection.
Connect high demand devices such as your TV directly over an Ethernet cable whenever you can.
Using Wi-Fi for Streaming Video
To make things simple, three minimum fixes to improve Wi-Fi when streaming are outlined.
To prevent Wi-Fi drops during streaming, try these tips:
- Switch to 5 GHz Wi-Fi: Very much if your router supports it, streaming goes better over 5 GHz than 2.4 GH.
- Reduce Active Devices: Free up bandwidth by disconnecting devices you’re not using.
- Use a Wired Connection: To stream stably connect your TV or streaming device to the router directly through an Ethernet cable.
- Check for Interference: There should be kept at a distance Bluetooth devices and other potential sources of interference from the streaming device.
The first step is to identify what Wi-Fi issue / problem you have. After getting a handle on the source of the issue, these tips will help keep your connection solid and streaming will remain smooth.