7 Ways to Fix Video Buffering When Streaming

Restart your router.

Restarting the router (also known as power cycling) clears the cache (think of it like your device’s hidden memory), which can boost performance. Resetting the router can help, too; this just restores the device to its default settings. However, if you do this, you have to reconnect phones, computers and some other devices. 

Update your streaming device or app.

Don’t ignore update prompts on your phone, tablet or TV. That new software might just fix the problem that’s glitching your streaming or slowing a device, and updates often improve security, too. 

Switch to 5.0 GHz.

If you have a dual-band router, you have two channel types to choose from: 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz. The 2.4 GHz channel is more common, so if you switch to the 5.0 GHz band for streaming, you might compete with fewer connections. One catch: the 5.0 GHz channel is actually faster than 2.4 GHz but its range is more limited, so you have to keep your streaming device closer to your router. 

Move back to a direct connection.

Hard-wired Ethernet connections still beat Wi-Fi in terms of performance. A new Ethernet cable can support speeds of up to 1 Gbps, nearly 7 times faster than the speed of a typical home wireless router. If you can’t wire directly to your internet, give your performance a boost with a Wi-Fi extender.

Boost your internet service provider.

Verizon now offers 2 powerful home internet options. Verizon Fios offers fast, reliable internet and comes with a free year of Disney+.¹ And if you live in one of the select cities where Verizon 5G Home Internet has landed, you could experience the first 5G wireless network with ultra-fast speeds. Plus, with Verizon 5G you get Disney+ free for the first 12 months and a free month of YouTube TV.²

With the right internet connection and a few simple steps, you’ll be back to enjoying your favorite entertainment without enduring that dreaded spinning circle or rotating arrow ever again. 

^{1 Get 12 months of Disney+ on us from time of enrollment (must enroll and activate with Verizon by 8.31.20). Must be 18 years of age or older. When 12 month promotional period expires, your Disney+ subscription will auto-renew at $6.99+ tax per month, and you will be charged monthly on your Verizon bill unless you cancel with Verizon. If you are a current multi-year or annual Disney+ subscriber, your existing subscription will be paused during the promotional period and will resume through Disney at the end of the 12-month period. Offer eligible for new Fios Home internet plans. One offer per Verizon account. Use of the Disney+ service is subject to the Disney+ and ESPN+ Subscriber Agreement.}

^{2 Switch to 5G Home Internet now and get YouTube TV on us for the first month. Then $49.99/mo after trial.}