To avoid buffering – meaning pauses in playback – when watching programs via the Tablo app, it's important to have a fast and reliable home network.
While a fast external internet connection (WAN) is important for internet-based streaming services like Netflix, Tablo also needs a high-quality Local Area Network (LAN) connection for the best results.
Think of your LAN as your local neighborhood. It includes every device connected to your home's internet router, either directly via Ethernet or via Wi-Fi.
Unlike WAN speed, which is dictated by the package you pay for from your ISP, your LAN speed is dependent on:
- The quality of your home router and Wi-Fi coverage
Newer routers have higher speeds (throughput) and do a better job of blanketing your home in Wi-Fi signals. Older routers will be slower and have coverage 'dead spots' where Wi-Fi connectivity is slower or unreliable. - The networking capabilities of the devices connected to your router
Newer streaming devices and smart TVs offer faster and more advanced Wi-Fi technology. If you're experiencing sluggish performance and unreliable connections, purchasing a new streaming box or stick for your television can help. - How 'busy' your environment is
Older routers may have trouble supporting the sheer number of internet-connected devices the average home has today. Even newer routers can get bogged down in busy or high-demand environments. Interference from your neighbor's Wi-Fi networks can also cause slowdowns.
Ensuring your home network is in tip-top shape is critical to a smooth streaming experience.
How Data is Transmitted Over a Network
When data is transmitted over a network, it's broken up into smaller bits called packets. Think of a packet as a parcel that you send in the mail. Just like the mail, packets can be delayed. This usually results in periods of buffering where video playback pauses on its own before continuing.
Under some circumstances, packets can get lost altogether.
How to Improve the Connection Quality on Your Local Network (LAN)
While some network problems may require some assistance from your Internet Service Provider (ISP), here are some things you can do to help improve your local network.
- Hardwire What You Can
When the physical layout of your home allows for it, it's optimal to hardwire your devices directly to your router via an Ethernet cable. This will provide faster, more stable connections. Plus, it frees up bandwidth by reducing the number of devices that rely on Wi-Fi. We recommend keeping your Tablo connected via Ethernet if possible. - Use the Wireless Band That Best Fits Your Situation
Most modern routers broadcast two different types of wireless networks. 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz. Each type of wireless network has different properties that make it better suited for different situations.
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- 5 GHz Networks - Are faster and are less prone to interference BUT have shorter range and have a harder time getting through falls, floors and furniture.
- 2.4 GHz Networks - Are slower and more prone to interference from neighboring networks and other devices, but have better range and ability to reach through physical obstructions.
Tablo supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. It is acceptable to use a mix of both in your home.
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- Use the Wireless Channel That Works For You
The 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands are further subdivided into wireless channels. The more activity there is on a channel, the more congested it will become. Many modern routers handle channel selection automatically behind the scenes. However, if your router allows you to manually select what channel is being used, you can use this to your advantage. Mobile apps such as WiFiMan will tell you what wireless channels are the most congested in your area and therefore should be avoided.
For more information on wireless frequencies and channels, go here.
- Consider the Placement of Your Router
Your router should be placed centrally in your home on an upper floor. Avoid hiding your router inside cabinets or behind furniture or other obstructions. If you use a wireless mesh system, place your Access Points (APs) in central locations around your home, away from outer walls, and near 'critical' devices like your smart TV or streaming device. Access points should be close enough to communicate with each other and your internet-connected devices, but not too close, as this can cause interference. - Use the Latest Technologies
Newer technologies such as Wi-Fi 6e are designed to help mitigate some of the drawbacks of wireless communications. If your router is over five years old, it may be worth considering an upgrade. The same applies to your streaming devices. If you have an older streaming device, it may be worth considering an upgrade if you are experiencing connectivity problems.