Solve Video Streaming Problems

When computer users speak of video streaming problems the number one issue is normally a jerky connection that will pause periodically (for several seconds) making it difficult to watch the video with any degree of continuity. (Sometimes videos will stall completely and refuse to play altogether.)

Although it is possible to understand the sources of these problems with streaming video not all are within your control. Those that are in your control are often quite easy to resolve, often just a matter of altering some settings within your video player software.

What are the Most Common Problems with Video Streaming?

With the prevalence of broadband Internet connections, viewing streaming video continues to grow smoother, more reliable, and more prevalent. In troubleshooting streaming video issues, there are three issues you should consider first: Internet traffic jams, a slow computer, and a noisy connection. Although you may not be able to avoid traffic jams, there are ways to overcome computer and connection issues.

Internet Traffic Jams

Streaming video requires a connection free of traffic jams but unfortunately no Internet connection is a direct line from source to user. Content passes through a number of computers on its way to you through your connection to your Internet service provider. At any point along the way too much traffic will cause the streamed content to pause. Normally players "buffer" streamed content, meaning a certain amount of the file is downloaded before it begins to play so that you are working through previously received data while more is being downloaded. Sometimes a delay of a second or two is unavoidable. Video is more susceptible than audio to such interruptions.

A Slow Computer

Video streaming problems -- even with a new, cutting edge, blazingly fast computer - are normally traced to one cause. You have too many applications open at one time and they are slowing down your reception of the video stream. Close all applications except your web browser and media player. (In some cases you can even close your web browser.) To consume this kind of content with the best results, try to use a computer running at 400 mhz or more. If you are working with less, make sure you turn off every application you don't need including those running in the background.

Noisy Phone Line or Connection

While dial-up connections are not as prevalent as they once were, a noisy phone line - one that hums and cracks is not good for streaming video. If you have no other way to connect, a dial-up will have to do, but it's always best to stream video over a DSL line or cable modem. (Note that either of these can be subject to noise and interruptions as well and if you notice that your connection is erratic or sluggish, you may want to have these lines checked by a service technician.)

Continue to: Problems With Streaming Video

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