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TV streaming involves utilizing the internet to access video entertainment on demand. The streaming service stores the files for the show, so you don’t have to download them to your device. Streaming TV almost resembles the traditional way we watch TV, and however, it allows us to use the internet to watch shows, movies, sports, or news channels across many devices.
In simpler terms, streaming TV is TV that you can watch on the internet either in real-time or at your convenience without watching them with an antenna, cable, or satellite services.
Most devices that can connect to the internet can take advantage of streaming TV, including smart TV sets, smartphones, computers, and tablets.
You can connect to a streaming service through your smart TV’s interface, directly from streaming sites, with apps, or through streaming services like Netflix or Hulu, Amazon Prime, etc.
Streaming TV Guide
If you think back two decades back, DVDs and video stores were the only deal-breakers for broadcast TV. However, in recent years, streaming services have overtaken the old ways of watching TV programs. The internet has changed how we watch TV episodes, making it easier to access entertainment options from anywhere. If you’re curious about TV streaming, we’ll explain what it is and how it works.
Why Should People Switch from Cable to Streaming TV?
Streaming TV has been around for years. Switching from cable TV to streaming services was once more of a cost-cutting rarity. However, it’s become more mainstream now. There are many people who started to watch streaming TV during the pandemic instead of traditional TV to add to their entertainment options while social distancing.
If you’re thinking of switching from cable to streaming TV, here are several reasons you might take the plunge:
It costs less: You can find some streaming services that cost less than $10 a month, compared to cable or satellite prices.
Some shows are only available from streaming services: Many popular shows like Netflix Originals and Apple TV programs are only available if you subscribe to their service online.
You can sometimes catch first-run movies: With fewer people going to the theater in-person during the pandemic, you may be able to watch some first-run movies with services like HBOMax.
You can binge-watch what you want to binge-watch: You can watch all the TV episodes of a tv show from start to finish at your own pace, never missing an episode.
You can watch from anywhere: Wherever you are, you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows any time of the day, as long as you have internet access.
How Does Streaming TV Work?
For you to be able to use streaming TV, you should have to have a reliable internet connection with enough speed. For a non-delayed streaming video experience, your internet connection should be at least 2 Mbp.
However, if you prefer to watch content in HD or 4K, you need a connection at least 5 Mbps to ensure you have sufficient bandwidth.
Here’s the process that happens for you to be able to experience streaming TV:
Step 1) Server and Cloud Storage
Streaming companies store content data on servers or cloud platforms.
Step 2) Content Delivery Networks
Larger companies (like Netflix) use content delivery networks. These networks cache the most famous content close to where you stream it to eliminate lag time and reduce bandwidth costs.
Step 3) Data Packets
Streaming companies break down content into smaller data packets to send to your device. When your device receives enough packets of information, it can play the content.
Streaming uses either Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or User Datagram Protocol (UDP) to move data packets across different networks. However, TCP provides a more reliable and secure connection link than UDP.
Step 4) Buffering
Your device can store some of the upcoming data packets of your content into its buffer. If your internet connection is too slow or stops, your device can only playback as much as has been stored in its buffer.
How to Start Streaming?
Are you tired of slow TV signals and ready to join the fantastic world of streaming but do not have an idea of where to start? Today’s technology has made it easier to stream TV to our devices than ever. We have composed an ultimate step-by-step guide on how to stream TV in the comfort of your home.
Step 1) Select a Streaming Device
The streaming device is what allows you to connect to the internet and stream programs. Options include:
A Smart TV
A non-Smart TV with a streaming device added (like Amazon FireTV, Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast)
A computer
A tablet
A smartphone
A video gaming console
Step 2) Set Up Streaming Device
Your streaming device will need to be able to connect to the internet over WiFi or Ethernet. However, If wants to add the streaming device to your TV, it will include instructions that tell you exactly how to connect it to your TV. You will also need to use the remote to change the input to match the device you’re using for streaming. Then, you need to follow the onscreen instructions to complete the setup.
Step 3) Select the Most Appropriate Streaming Service
A streaming service provides you with the channels and programs you want to watch. Use your computer, tablet, or smartphone to create an account with your most preferred service provider. You can usually do this from the service’s website or by downloading an app from the app store.
Then, log in to the service using the device you wish to use to stream the service. You can use multiple devices to view the same streaming service.
If you are using a TV to connect to your streaming service, apps for popular services are probably available on the homepage. However, you may require downloading an app if you want to use a service that is not already preloaded.
Some popular streaming services include:
Netflix
Hulu
HBO Max
YouTube TV
However, if it’s your first time availing of the service, you need to fill in your details and choose the most fitting subscription that fits your budget and content preference.
Smart TVs
Smart TVs come with various options, including voice control and varying visual interfaces, to make stream the programs you want to watch. It’s also helpful to notice the TV picture quality and remote-control design when deciding which one to buy.
Most people prefer streaming through a Smart TV because the interface makes it easy to stream TV with very little effort or know-how. They come customized with a user-friendly search system, interface, and access to many streaming services. The only negative of this method is that it may be impossible to add streaming apps for services that aren’t already preloaded into the TV.
Some of the most preferred smart TVs for streaming include:
Sony Z950G
TCL 4K TV
Insignia 4 TV
Samsung 4kTV
These TVs have incredible HD pictures and come pre-installed with streaming apps like Disney, Amazon Prime, HBOMax, Hulu, and Netflix.
Types of Streaming
Let’s dive deeper together to understand different video streaming options.
Live Streaming
Live TV streaming services involve being able to watch live content happening in real-time. There should be very little or no time between when the live content is released and when you can watch live streaming TV. However, in many cases, you can choose to start earlier than the current moment of the broadcast.
On-Demand Streaming
On-demand streaming involves having instant access to videos from online libraries. It’s become one of the most preferred ways to watch video content. On-demand video streaming allows viewers to decide how, where, and when to view media content.
Free Streaming
Whether you want free news, videos, or shows with free streaming, you are not required to pay a single cent for a subscription. Several free services exist.
However, they don’t usually include many viewing options compared to paid subscriptions. You may also have to watch several ads to watch along the way.
Important Streaming Devices
Having key devices is important to achieve a full entertainment experience if your smart TV doesn’t have every app you would love to stream. However, at times understanding the most critical devices can be tricky with many streaming options.
