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Netflix Movie Does Stream, But Playback Is Slow
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Question:

Why is my Blu-ray player having trouble streaming Netflix? What can I do to improve the streaming quality?

 

Answer:

Since your Blu-ray Player, Router and Modem are able to stream Neflix, we know all components are connected and working. However, if playback is slow or your video quality is poor this can be caused by several different factors such as:

  • Bandwidth fluctuations
  • Router settings and firmware
  • Signal Strength (Router)/Distance

Bandwidth Fluctuations

Bandwidth refers to the rate at which traffic is carried by your network. The video quality of the movies and TV programs you stream vary based on your actual internet connection speed. For example, in order to stream HD titles from Netflix a high speed internet connection, typically 5 Mbps or higher, is required. DVD quality streams require at least 2.4 Mbps.

You can diagnose your internet speed by performing a speed test, however, keep in mind that a momentary test of bandwidth does not indicate bandwidth availability throughout a full length movie. Bandwidth can fluctuate for several different reasons including:

  • Downloading music, streaming media and online game playing can reduce the amount of bandwidth available for streaming a Netflix movie or series. Doing all or any of these while trying to watch a movie will reduce the amount of available bandwidth.
  • Additional usage on the ISP network may affect your bandwidth availability (especially in cable broadband networks, as residences in the same neighborhood share ISP bandwidth), so as more of your neighbors go online, the amount of available bandwidth goes down.
  • Satellite ISP’s may enforce more stringent ‘fair use’ policies than other ISP’s so you may experience more drops in bandwidth. Meaning that the Satellite provider equally divides the amount of available bandwidth to you and other users as demand increases.

To perform a speed test click here, your browser will be redirected to the McAfee website. Make sure you have no other connections using bandwidth at the time of the test for accuracy. Also perform the test at different times of the day and week to get a better idea of the amount of bandwidth available. Stop any of the following online activities before performing your test:

  • Online gaming.
  • Using any P2P (Peer to Peer) or file sharing software.
  • Using any social networking sites like Facebook.

Remember, speed tests show a momentary test of bandwidth and are used as a general tool in understanding bandwidth availability. For example, you may see an increase in your internet speed at later times such as 2-3am, when the average internet traffic is the lightest and your local loop is not over burdened.

Contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider) that provides your DSL, Cable or other broadband network service and ask what speed you should be receiving under your current plan and whether you are actually receiving that speed. Some providers can provide a signal boost at the source if you’re not receiving the speed that you should.

Router Settings And Firmware Updates

Settings

Most routers have settings for Transmit rate and QoS (Quality of Service). Transmit Rate lets the router work at a specific speed for wireless transmissions and should be set to AUTO. QoS refers to the different priorities you can set, so that a certain level of performance is obtained. For example, you can set the priority to a streaming device as higher than you would for a Bluetooth device, printer, portable, etc.  

Each router manufacturer has a unique configuration tool, along with documentation and instructions for configuring your network. To enter the configuration tool, you must open your web browser and enter the router’s IP address in the address bar. You will need to know the user name and password to enter your routers configuration page. The default username and password varies by manufacturer, often the username is left blank and the password is admin, or vice versa. Check the bottom of the router for default settings or check the documentation that came with the router.

Due to the multiple router manufacturers, router configuration and liability we can only provide general information, however, here is a list of popular router manufacturer sites that offer technical support. If your routers manufacturer is not listed here, please perform a search using your favorite search engine. Clicking any of the links below will redirect your browser to the site selected.

Firmware Updates

If performance from you router seems sluggish, freezes intermittently or drops connections, it may require a firmware upgrade. Firmware upgrades are free downloads provided by the router manufacturers to implement network and security protocols, apply a fix, increase network connectivity, etc.

To find out if a firmware upgrade is available for your router, visit the manufacturer’s web site and follow the instructions exactly as provided by that manufacturer.

Warning: Firmware upgrades are model specific, you may cause your router to stop working if you apply it incorrectly or for the wrong model. For these reasons, we cannot provide further instructions, nor can Samsung be held liable for issues resulting from a router firmware upgrade.

Signal Strength (Router)/ Distance

There is no way to know the exact range of your wireless network and performance varies depending on wireless network hardware, physical barriers or signal interference from other radio devices.

Distance

Wireless devices have limitations when it comes to their range. For devices running on 2.4 GHz, the range can be as far as 100-150 feet. If your wireless network is above its range, consider relocating the device. Distance is directly related to signal strength. The further you are from your router, the weaker the signal strength.  

Physical Obstructions  

Wireless routers are affected by obstructions that may lead to weak signal strength. Signals can be affected by obstructions such as cabinets, mirrors, metal or glass objects, and thick walls or ceilings. Every obstacle placed between a wireless router and a wireless device will create signal loss. If you have any of these objects between your wireless router and wireless device, consider relocating your wireless router to get around the obstruction and make sure the antenna(s) are pointing towards the BD Player.

Wireless Interference

Neighboring wireless networks or any appliance that operates on the same frequency as your wireless device (ex. 2.4 GHz) may cause interference and may affect your wireless connection and signal.

Common sources of interference are:

  • Neighboring wireless networks
  • Microwave ovens
  • 2.4 GHz cordless telephones
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Wireless baby monitors

Try changing the channel as this may eliminate interference affecting only one channel. Preferred channels to use are 1, 6 and 11 since they're considered non-overlapping channels.

Due to the multiple router manufacturers, router configuration, and liability we can only provide general information, however, here is a list of popular router manufacturer sites that offer technical support. If your routers manufacturer is not listed here, please perform a search using your favorite search engine. Clicking any of the links below will redirect your browser to the site selected.

 
 

Please contact our technical support team so that we can further troubleshoot your product over the phone and determine if service is needed. Click the phone support button below to receive a transaction number which will provide the technical support agent with the details of this session.


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