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Wi-Fi or a Cable? How to Get a Stable Connection

Why a cable beats Wi-Fi for live TV, how to use the faster Wi-Fi band, and when extra equipment helps.

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Live TV has no time to catch up, so it notices small problems that web browsing does not. Your home’s network matters more than you may think.

Start

Understand the difference

Wi-Fi sends your internet through the air, and walls can weaken it. A cable connects directly, and it is not affected by walls or neighbours.

Use a cable if you can

If your internet box is close to the TV, plug in an Ethernet cable. It looks like a thick phone cord. If you can only do this for one TV, choose your main one.

If you must use Wi-Fi

Many internet boxes offer two networks: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 5 GHz one is usually faster, but it does not reach as far. It often has “5G” in its name.

Move your internet box

Move it out of closets and away from metal. Place it out in the open and as close to your TV as you can.

Consider a mesh system

In a large house, a mesh system uses two or three small boxes to spread Wi-Fi around. It is often better than a simple extender.

Final step

Ask before you buy

Your internet company may lend or sell you what you need. Ask them what they offer before you buy from elsewhere.

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This guide is part of the StreamIPTV help centre for IPTV Canada viewers, on every device. New here? Start with a free trial.