What is Streaming TV? Your Guide to On-the-Go Entertainment.

Streaming has revolutionized the way we consume entertainment. From its inception in the 90s, streaming has come a long way, allowing us to enjoy TV, movies, music, live events, and more. Below, we’re going to explain all the ins and outs of TV streaming, including the benefits, challenges, and how to get started.

What Does Streaming TV Mean?

TV streaming refers to the process of viewing video content via the Internet without needing to download it first. It gives you the ability to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and video content without being restricted by wires and plugs — you can watch right from your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV. As long as you have Internet access, you can stream content.

Types of Video Streaming

When it comes to video streaming, there are essentially two types: Live TV streaming and on-demand streaming.

• Live TV Streaming: It used to be that in order to watch live TV, you had to have a cable connection. While a cable connection is a great way to watch live TV, you can also stream live TV. Whether it’s through streaming services like Hulu + Live TV or through cable companies that offer streaming options (Spectrum, Optimum, Cox, etc.), getting access to live TV is easier than ever.
• On-Demand Streaming: The most commonly known streaming services (Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, etc.) offer on-demand streaming. This means there is a library of movies and series to choose from, none of which are broadcast live.

Streaming vs. Cable

On a basic level, streaming differs from cable in that streaming transmits content via the Internet, while cable does so through an actual cable connection. Beyond that, the differences are not so distinct.

It used to be that in order to watch live TV, you had to have a cable subscription. And in order to watch what you wanted, when you wanted to watch it, you had to sign up for a streaming service. Today, those lines are blurred. Many cable providers (Xfinity, Mediacom, etc.) now offer the same traditional cable channel packages via streaming.

Providers often have their own streaming apps available for download on any device, so subscribers can enjoy their favorite channels on the go. Plus, those cable providers often provide access to libraries of on-demand shows and movies, so you also get the benefits offered by on-demand streaming services.

On the other hand, some on-demand streaming services, like Hulu, now offer live TV packages in an attempt to compete with cable companies. However, they may not be able to match the number of channels offered by the cable providers.

Related article: Cable TV is Getting in on Streaming: What You Need to Know

How Exactly Does Streaming Work?

Streaming involves a complex process in which the shows or movies you’re watching are divided into small chunks and continuously sent to your device via the Internet. As you’re watching one chunk of content, the next is being sent over. This process allows you to watch content as it’s being downloaded, ensuring a smooth, buffer-free experience. However, unlike typical downloaded files, those chunks of content are immediately removed from your device. Whether you’re streaming through a cable provider like Spectrum or Cox or using a mainstream service like Netflix or Disney+, the process is the same.

Streaming Terms Explained

Streaming comes with its own vocabulary. Here's a plain-English breakdown of the terms you're most likely to encounter:

• OTT (Over-the-Top): "Over-the-top" is any streaming service delivered over the Internet that bypasses traditional cable or satellite infrastructure, like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. The name comes from how the content travels "over the top" of existing cable lines.
• IPTV (Internet Protocol Television): IPTV delivers TV content through an Internet connection rather than a cable or satellite signal. But unlike OTT, it often needs a dedicated network connection managed by the provider. Some cable companies use IPTV infrastructure to power their streaming apps.
• VOD (Video on Demand): VOD means you can watch content whenever you choose, rather than at a scheduled broadcast time. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are VOD services. VOD libraries are pre-recorded, so nothing airs live.
• Live streaming: Live TV streaming services deliver content in real time as events happen. Sports, news, concerts, and breaking events are commonly live-streamed. Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV offer live streaming alongside their on-demand libraries.
• FAST channels (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV): FAST channels are free, ad-supported streams that mimic the experience of traditional TV channels, running scheduled programming rather than letting you choose what to watch on demand. Pluto TV and Tubi are well-known FAST platforms. The number of FAST channels has grown rapidly as an alternative to subscription fatigue.

What Equipment is Needed To Stream TV & Movies

Streaming equipment has rapidly evolved over the years. In the early 2000s, streaming was only available on computers connected to the Internet. With the introduction of smartphones and smart TVs, streaming became accessible on many more devices. But even then, streaming on some TVs still required an HDMI cable. Today, the equipment is much simpler and far more powerful. Here’s what you need:

A Compatible Device

This can be a smart TV, a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet. Even if you don’t own a smart TV, you can still stream TV and movies on your television set using streaming devices, like a Roku Streaming Stick, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV 4K device, or Google Chromecast.

A Reliable Internet Connection

Streaming requires a stable and reasonably fast Internet connection. The speed you need depends on the streaming quality you want (like HD or 4K). Generally, the faster the Internet speed, the better the streaming quality.

Fiber Internet is considered the best type of Internet. However, options like cable — and in some cases, even satellite Internet — can provide enough speed to enjoy your favorite shows and movies.

Along with a strong connection, you also need the right hardware (router and modem). You can often buy your own modem and router or rent hardware directly from your Internet provider.

Related article: A Complete Guide to the Best Routers for Streaming TV

How To Start Streaming TV

Getting started with streaming is straightforward once you know what you need. Here's how to go from zero to watching in five steps.

Step 1: Pick Your Device

You can stream on almost any screen you already own: a smart TV, laptop, desktop, smartphone, or tablet. If your TV isn't a smart TV, a streaming device like a Roku Streaming Stick, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV 4K, or Google Chromecast will plug into your HDMI port and get you set up in minutes.

Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection

Streaming HD content requires at least 5 to 10 Mbps per stream. 4K streaming needs 25 Mbps or more per stream. If there are several people streaming at the same time, those numbers need to be multiplied.

Run a speed test to confirm your current connection can handle your household's needs before subscribing to anything.

Step 3: Download the App

Every major streaming service has a dedicated app. Search for it in your device's app store (Google Play, Apple App Store, Roku Channel Store, etc.) and download it directly. Most apps are free to download; the subscription fee is separate.

Step 4: Create An Account

You'll need an email address and a payment method to sign up for most paid services. Some services, like Tubi or Pluto TV, let you create a free account or skip account creation entirely. Keep track of your login credentials, especially if you're subscribing to multiple services.

Step 5: Choose Your Service

Think about what you actually want to watch before subscribing. Ask yourself:

• Do you want live TV and local channels, or just on-demand content?
• Are there specific shows, movies, or sports you can't miss?
• How many people in your household will be watching, and on how many screens at once?

Matching your viewing habits to the right service from the start saves money and prevents subscription creep.

Best Internet Setup For Streaming

Your Internet plan sets the ceiling on streaming quality, but your in-home setup determines whether you actually reach it.

Speed Tiers By Household Streaming Needs

Household type	Recommended speed
1 to 2 users, HD streaming	25 to 50 Mbps
2 to 4 users, mix of HD and 4K	100 to 200 Mbps
4+ users, multiple 4K streams	300 to 500 Mbps
Heavy streamers, gamers, and remote workers	500 Mbps to 1 Gbps

WiFi vs. Ethernet

WiFi is convenient but walls, distance from the router, and interference from other devices can all reduce your effective speeds.

Ethernet, a direct wired connection from your router to your streaming device, eliminates most of that variability. If your smart TV or streaming stick has an Ethernet port (or supports a USB-to-Ethernet adapter), a wired connection is the most reliable way to prevent buffering and quality drops.

Use Ethernet for:

• Smart TVs and gaming consoles used for 4K streaming
• Devices that rarely move
• Situations where buffering is a consistent problem

Use WiFi for:

• Phones, tablets, and laptops
• Devices in rooms where running a cable isn't practical

Router Placement

Where you put your router matters. A few guidelines:

• Place your router in a central location in your home, not tucked in a corner or closet
• Keep it elevated and away from walls, metal objects, and appliances like microwaves
• If your home is large or has multiple floors, a mesh WiFi system (like Eero, Google Nest WiFi, or Orbi) extends coverage more evenly than a single router

Router Standards

For 4K streaming across multiple devices, your router should support WiFi 6 (802.11ax). WiFi 6 handles more simultaneous connections more efficiently than older WiFi 5 routers, which matters in homes with lots of active devices competing for bandwidth.

Benefits & Challenges of Streaming

Streaming has fundamentally changed our media consumption, offering unprecedented convenience and variety. That said, it's not without its challenges. Let’s dive into each one:

Benefits

• Convenience: You can watch what you want, when you want, anywhere you have an Internet connection.
• Variety: Streaming provides access to vast libraries of content, including live TV, depending on your streaming provider.
• Personalization: Streaming services often use AI to learn your viewing habits and recommend content based on your preferences.
• Cost-Effective: Depending on your needs, streaming can be more affordable than other options.

Challenges

• Requires Internet: A stable, high-speed connection is needed for a smooth streaming experience.
• Data Consumption: Streaming can consume significant amounts of data, which can impact your Internet bills and even your speed.
• Decision Fatigue: With traditional live TV, you are limited to whatever programs are on at the time. With streaming services, there are hundreds (sometimes thousands) of options, which can make it hard to decide what to watch.
• Multiple Subscriptions: Not every show and movie is available on every streaming service. Therefore, you may need to subscribe to several services in order to watch what you want, driving up the overall cost.

Related article: The Pros and Cons of Streaming

Levels of Streaming Quality

Streaming quality can significantly impact your viewing experience, with options ranging from the basic Standard Definition (SD) to the ultra-crisp 4K Ultra HD. Each level offers a different visual experience, suited to various Internet speeds, screen sizes, and data plans.

• Standard Definition (SD): SD is the most basic level of streaming quality, offering 480p resolution. SD consumes less data and bandwidth, making it a good choice for slower Internet connections.
• High Definition (HD): HD steps up the resolution to either 720p or 1080i, providing a much clearer, sharper image than SD. It's ideal for most modern TVs and is the standard quality for many streaming services.
• Full HD (1080p): Full HD delivers even more detail and clarity. It's great for larger screens and requires a relatively fast Internet connection for smooth streaming without buffering.4K
• Ultra HD: 4K, or Ultra HD, boasts the highest resolution at 2160p. It provides stunning detail and depth, perfect for large, high-quality screens. However, 4K streaming requires a very fast Internet connection and more data usage.

Most Popular Streaming Services

There are hundreds of streaming options, so choosing the right service can be difficult. While many cable companies offer streaming TV packages, the list of the top streaming services below is limited to on-demand streaming.

These are the most popular streaming services, according to Statista:

1. Netflix
2. Amazon Prime Video
3. Disney+
4. Hulu
5. HBO Max
6. Paramount+
7. Apple TV
8. Peacock

Free Vs. Paid Streaming Services

Not every streaming service requires a monthly subscription. Understanding the difference between free and paid options helps you build a lineup that fits both your viewing habits and your budget.

Free Streaming Services

Free, ad-supported streaming services let you watch movies and TV series without paying a subscription fee. Instead of charging you, they run ads during content, similar to traditional broadcast TV. Popular free services include:

• Tubi: A large library of movies and TV shows, no account required to watch
• Pluto TV: Live TV-style channels plus on-demand content, all free
• Peacock (free tier): NBC content, select movies, and some live sports
• The Roku Channel: Available on Roku devices and the web
• Crackle: Movies and original series, supported by ads

Pros of free services:

• No monthly cost
• No credit card required for most
• Good for casual viewers or supplementing a paid subscription

Limits of free services:

• Ad interruptions every few minutes
• Smaller or older content libraries
• Fewer or no original series
• Limited or no access to new releases

Paid Streaming Services

Paid services charge a monthly or annual fee, but viewers have a larger content library to choose from, fewer or no ads, and access to original programming. Most offer tiered plans, where a lower-cost tier includes ads and a higher-cost tier removes them, making it affordable for all income-levels.

Service	Starting price	Ad-free option
Netflix	~$9/mo (with ads)	Yes
Disney+	~$12/mo (with ads)	Yes
HBO Max	~$11/mo (with ads)	Yes
Hulu	~$12/mo (with ads)	Yes
Paramount+	~$9/mo (with ads)	Yes
Apple TV+	~$12/mo	No ads
Amazon Prime Video	Included with Prime (~$15/mo)	Yes (add-on fee)

Common Streaming Problems And How To Fix Them

Even if you have a solid setup, streaming doesn't always go smoothly. Here are the most common issues and what to do about them.

Buffering

Buffering happens when your device can't receive data fast enough to keep up with playback. It usually comes down to a slow or unstable Internet connection.

How to fix it:

• Run a speed test. If your speeds are below 10 Mbps for HD or 25 Mbps for 4K, your plan may be the bottleneck.
• Move closer to your router or switch to a wired Ethernet connection.
• Reduce the number of devices actively using your network.
• Lower the streaming quality in the app's settings temporarily.

Poor Video Quality

If your picture looks blurry or pixelated even though you're not buffering, the streaming app may have automatically dropped the resolution to compensate for an inconsistent connection.

How to fix it:

• Manually set the video quality in the app to HD or 4K if your Internet speed supports it.
• Restart your router to clear any temporary slowdowns.
• Check whether your TV or device is set to display at the correct resolution.

App Crashes Or Freezes

Streaming apps can crash due to outdated software, low device storage, or a bug in a recent update.

How to fix it:

• Force-close the app and reopen it.
• Check for app updates in your device's app store.
• Clear the app's cache (available in most device settings menus).
• Restart your streaming device.
• If the problem persists, uninstall and reinstall the app.

Device Compatibility Issues

Not every streaming service supports every device. Older smart TVs and streaming sticks sometimes lose support for newer app versions.

How to fix it:

• Check the streaming service's website for a list of supported devices.
• Update your device's firmware or operating system.
• If your device is no longer supported, a newer streaming stick (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV) is a low-cost fix that brings most TVs up to date.

FAQs About Streaming

How Much Does Streaming Cost?

The cost of streaming ultimately depends on your choices. If you opt for streaming through a cable provider like Spectrum or Cox, the cost might be bundled with other services, like Internet or phone. On the other hand, individual streaming services like Netflix or Disney+ have their own subscription fees, which can add up if you subscribe to multiple services. Each service offers different plans, some with options like no ads or commercials, which also affect the price. So, the total cost depends on the combination of services you choose.

Do Cable Companies Offer Streaming?

Yes, many cable companies now offer streaming options. These providers typically allow you to stream both live TV (including local channels) and on-demand content. This offers subscribers an unprecedented combination of flexibility and convenience.

Find a TV provider in your area that offers TV streaming.

How Can I Improve My Streaming Quality?

To improve your streaming quality, try these steps:

• Upgrade your Internet plan to a faster speed, especially for HD or 4K streaming.
• Use a wired connection (Ethernet) instead of WiFi for a more stable connection.
• Close other applications and devices that are using your network to reduce traffic.
• Update your streaming device’s software and use a modern device capable of high-quality streaming.
• Adjust the streaming service’s quality settings, if possible, to match your Internet speed.

Related article: 10 Ways to Increase Your Home Internet Speed.

What Will Streaming Look Like in the Future?

The future of streaming could include many different scenarios. Major platforms might maintain market dominance, possibly leading to fewer options, or the industry could become more diverse, with competitive pricing and more choices. Changes like ad-supported tiers in leading services are also likely to become more common. Regardless, the streaming market is expected to remain vibrant due to the high demand for accessible entertainment.

Is Streaming Safe?

Streaming is generally safe, especially when using reputable services like cable companies (Optimum, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc.) or mainstream services, like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. These services and providers employ high security standards to protect your data and privacy. However, it's important to be cautious with lesser-known or free streaming sites, as they might not have the same security measures and could potentially expose you to malware or other risks.

Related article: Is Streaming Illegal? All Your Streaming Questions Answered.

How Much Internet Speed is Needed for Streaming?

The amount of Internet speed you need is dependent on several factors, including:

• Your location
• The number of connected devices in your household
• Your desired streaming quality
• Other simultaneous Internet activities

High-speed Internet is more affordable than ever, which means you can get the speed you need to stream at a high quality. If you’re not sure of your current Internet speed, try our instant, online Internet speed test.

Related article: How Much Upload Speed is Enough for Live Streaming?.

How SmartMove Can Help You Start Streaming

If you’re looking for a premium TV experience, SmartMove is here to help! We partner with some of the top cable TV providers across the country. Not only do those providers offer reliable service, they also offer streaming.

If you want all your local channels paired with the top networks, on-demand content, and the ability to add your favorite mainstream streaming services, we can get you connected.

Find a TV provider with SmartMove today.