If you like to stream videos on a laptop or smartphone, you’ve probably experienced the annoyance of buffering. This lag in playback often occurs when a home’s cable internet service isn’t fast enough to support what you’re attempting to watch. Luckily, there are a few tricks that may provide an immediate solution.

How to Stop Buffering When Watching Videos Online

1. Turn Off Other Applications

If the device has Facebook open or is downloading a program while streaming a video, you may experience buffering. These applications will use up the internet connection’s resources and slow it down, even if they’re running in the background. In order to watch a video without interruptions, it may be necessary to close all other applications on the device. 

2. Disconnect Other Devices Connected to the Network

The more devices connected to the network, the slower the cable internet service may be. Asking too much of your bandwidth at once is especially troublesome if the internet speed is less than 25 megabits per second (Mbps). To stream video smoothly without a speedy Wi-Fi plan, you may have to turn off other devices for the time being.

3. Clear the Browser

Frequent buffering isn’t always due to slow cable internet service. If the browser is overloaded with websites you’ve recently visited, it can increase buffering times. Clearing your browser history periodically can help speed up the videos you watch. To prevent data from building back up on the browser, download a tool that automatically clears the cache.

4. Speed Up the Connection

If frequent buffering is still occurring, you may need a faster internet connection. Upgrading to the next tier of download speed can make a significant difference. 

In the meantime, take other steps to help your connection work faster. For example, try power-cycling the router modem. To do this, disconnect all devices, unplug the equipment, then plug it back in after 30 seconds. Additionally, running a malware scan on your device may turn up unwelcome junk that’s reducing performance.

If you want to upgrade your cable internet service, turn to TruVista in Chester, SC. Established in 1897, the company provides residential and commercial customers with reliable voice, cable internet, and TV services throughout many areas in South Carolina and Georgia. They always stay on top of trends in the industry and offer money-saving bundles to help customers get the best bang for their buck. For more information about their services, call (803) 385-2191 or visit their website.