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In this blog, we'll talk about streaming — what it is, the benefits of streaming over traditional television, and the Internet you need to do it effectively.
Over the last decade or so, the popularity of traditional television has waned in favor of streaming alternatives. But where Cable and terrestrial local TV seemed to require very little to get the job done, streaming seems to require so much more — like a quick, reliable Internet connection and a device to stream through. Add to that the fact that not all Internet connections are created equal, and it can be confusing to understand just how to get started. Thankfully, streaming, as mystifying as it seems, is an accessible entertainment option, and everyone can stream content reliably and effectively through a few simple steps.
In this blog post, we'll talk about streaming — what it is, the benefits of streaming over traditional television, and the Internet you need to do it effectively. So, if you've been wondering how to get started with streaming, this article is for you!
As the word streaming becomes more commonplace today, it can be difficult to know just what it means. Simply put, streaming means "to transmit or receive data over the Internet continuously." So, when you listen to music through a service like Spotify or watch a movie through a service like Netflix, these companies are streaming the content over the Internet, and you are accessing it through your Internet-capable device. This device could be a Smart TV, a computer, a gaming console, or even a mobile phone. But as prevalent as streaming is, many people still aren't sure how it works or what they need to get started. Luckily, streaming is simple and accessible to anyone with an Internet connection and an interest in exploring the vast array of content available.
The most obvious difference between traditional TV and streaming alternatives is the delivery method. Traditional TV is watched and enjoyed in several ways. Most commonly today, that way is Cable, which is transmitted by your provider along a network of coaxial cables and into your home. Other traditional options include terrestrial television or "over-the-air" (OTA) television and satellite TV, both of which are forms of broadcast TV that require an antenna or a dish to receive a broadcast programming signal. Streaming, however, relies on an Internet connection. Whether you use DSL, Cable, or Fiber, so long as your connection is quick and reliable, you can access various streaming services whenever you want.
That by itself is one of the largest benefits of streaming because, often, traditional Cable television options have set programming schedules. If you want to enjoy TV, you have to watch what's on, not necessarily what you want to watch. Streaming, however, is on-demand and offers access to the TV shows, movies, and content you want to watch whenever your schedule allows.
Due to the convenience and comprehensiveness of traditional television, though, some people may prefer it over streaming. So, in the end, it often comes down to personal preferences.
All you need to stream content is an Internet-capable device that provides access to the app or service where the stream is coming from. You can stream directly to any TV with an HDMI port by connecting a streaming device such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Google Chromecast, and you can stream using certain Smart TVs by directly downloading the streaming service app. Smartphones are another popular option and can stream content well.
While it's entirely possible to stream directly from your Smart TV, there are certain advantages to using a dedicated streaming device such as Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Google Chromecast. These devices are designed for streaming and offer smoother navigation and more advanced features than you may find on a standard Smart TV interface. Plus, they are often more affordable than upgrading to a brand-new Smart TV. Many TVs today, however, come with smart functionalities, so if you're looking to upgrade anyway, having those features baked in may be a more convenient option.
As streaming services have become more robust and comprehensive, Cable TV is no longer a requirement for watching your favorite channels live. Whether you're into sports, news, or entertainment, many streaming options exist for enjoying live TV, including Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV, each of which offers various channel options at different price points. An additional benefit of these services is that they usually include streaming options as well, so if you subscribe to their live service, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. It's worth noting, however, that these live TV streaming services, while often more cost-effective than Cable, can still be expensive, especially compared to streaming straightforward, on-demand content. But if live TV is important to you, numerous streaming options are available for you.
Generally, experts recommend having a download speed of at least 5 Mbps (megabits per second) for streaming videos in standard definition and 25 Mbps for streaming videos in high definition. This number can vary depending on the service, but this is generally considered the average.
It's important to remember that Internet speed is impacted by the number of devices being used simultaneously. The Mbps rating advertised by a plan is the maximum speed it can provide, but this number gets divided when multiple devices are being used. For instance, if you and your spouse are both working from home and video conferencing at the same time, the bandwidth available is being split between you. And then, if you have kids who are streaming videos or playing games, the bandwidth is split even further.
So, while streaming has relatively low bandwidth requirements, it's generally considered a good idea to get a plan that will allow you to stream television and video while also doing other Internet tasks.
If you plan on streaming your own content, though, the upload speed will also be an important point to consider. High upload speeds typically don't affect the content you watch, but when you're putting content onto the Internet through services like Twitch, higher upload speeds generally mean better video quality and less chance of buffering or lagging.
If you aren't sure what Internet speeds you need, plan to perform a data audit. Explore how much data you and your family consume regularly, and look for plans that will allow you to stream without issue.
When optimizing your streaming performance, the first thing to consider is your router and modem (or Optical Network Terminal, if you have Fiber). Sometimes, simply moving and adjusting the position of these devices, if possible, can improve your speed and connectivity. Additionally, if these devices are older, consider upgrading them, though you may have to consult with your provider to ensure this is done correctly.
Switching to faster Internet options like Fiber or Cable may also enhance your streaming experience. If your Internet is quick enough to stream content well and reliably, speedier Internet may not impact your performance much, but if you're struggling to enjoy the content you love, an upgrade can be a game changer.
Streaming is an ever-growing trend that offers viewers a more cost-effective and convenient way to enjoy content that used to be limited to traditional TV. With the right device and a solid Internet connection, you can access original programs, classic movies, and live TV wherever and whenever. Faster speeds often enhance the streaming experience, ensuring quality audio and video is achieved without buffering or stuttering. So, if you're not sure that your current Internet can handle streaming well, Glo Fiber is here to help! With some of the fastest Internet around, and a television package designed to fit your budget, Glo Fiber makes enjoying the content you love easier and simpler than ever. If you're interested in upgrading your Internet, look no further than Glo Fiber. Contact us today and enjoy some of the best Fiber Internet around!