IPTV Buffering? 9 Fixes That Actually Work

Buffering is almost always caused by something between the server and your screen: your Wi-Fi, your device, your internet provider or the app settings. Work through the list below — most people solve the issue within the first three steps.

Quick fixes

1. Restart your device and your router (unplug for 30 seconds).
2. Run a speed test on the same device — you want 25 Mbps+ for 4K.
3. Switch to a wired Ethernet connection or move the router closer.

App and device fixes

1. Clear the IPTV app's cache (Settings → Applications → your app → Clear cache).
2. Change the player: most apps let you switch between an internal and external player (e.g. VLC or MX Player).
3. Lower the stream quality from 4K to FHD if your internet is too slow for 4K.
4. Close apps running in the background, especially on older Firesticks.

Network fixes

1. Change your router's DNS to a public DNS such as 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8.
2. If your internet provider slows down video at busy times, a good VPN can help.

How to tell where the problem is

A simple test tells you whether the issue is local or on the server. Play the same channel on a second device connected to the same network. If it plays smoothly there, the problem is the first device or its app. If both devices buffer, the problem is your network or internet provider. If only some channels buffer on every device, contact us — we can check those streams for you.

When buffering only happens in the evening

Buffering that appears at the same time every evening — often during big football matches — usually means your internet provider is too busy or is slowing down video at busy times. Running a speed test at that exact time will confirm it. Lowering the quality to FHD during those hours or using a VPN are the most common solutions.