Symptoms
- Video pauses repeatedly to load
- Quality drops to low resolution automatically
- Buffering happens on one device but not others
- Worse in the evening or at peak usage times
Likely causes
- CommonWeak Wi-Fi signal to the streaming deviceDistance from the router or interference can slow the connection significantly.
- CommonToo many devices using the network at onceSimultaneous streaming, downloads, or video calls can saturate available bandwidth.
- CommonInternet plan speed too low for the video quality selected4K and high-definition streams need considerably more bandwidth than standard definition.
- PossibleStreaming service server issueOccasionally the problem is on the provider's end, especially during high-demand events.
- PossibleOutdated router firmware or an overloaded routerAging routers can struggle to handle current network demands.
What to do
- Check if other devices stream fine at the same time to isolate whether it's one device or the whole network.
- Move the streaming device closer to the router, or connect it via ethernet cable if possible.
- Pause other downloads, uploads, or streams happening on the network at the same time.
- Lower the video quality setting manually to see if that stops buffering.
- Restart the router and the streaming device.
- Run an internet speed test and compare it to your plan's advertised speed and the service's recommended speed for your chosen quality.
- Check the streaming service's status page for known outages.
When to call a pro
If speed tests are consistently well below what you're paying for, contact your internet provider.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.