How Do I Test My Internet Speed?

When live streaming, it is important that you have at least 5 mbps of upload internet speed (7 mbps or higher preferred) for your broadcast. On StreamYard, the quality of your connection is more important than the speeds, so we recommend plugging in directly to your router. 

How to test your speeds

To test the speed of your internet, go to Speedtest.net. Click on the Go button.

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You will see a number of results, such as your download speed and your upload speed. The number you want to focus on if you are hosting the live stream on your own internet connection is the upload speed. As mentioned earlier, you want to have at least 5 mbps-7 mbps or higher for your upload speed.

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How Do I Improve My Internet Speeds For Live Streaming?

If you find that your upload speed is less than 5 mbps, you may want to consider contacting your Internet Service Provider (ISP), and asking them to increase your speeds. There may be an additional cost associated with increasing your speeds from your ISP. 

After you test your Internet speeds, if you determine that you cannot increase your upload speed, you may want to consider lowering the resolution that you are streaming at to 720p or 480p. 

To reduce the traffic on your network, consider disabling backup or cloud backup solutions, such as Dropbox or Box.net, and minimize using streaming services, such as Netflix, Disney+, or gaming when you are trying to broadcast a live stream.

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