When the stream suddenly goes on strike
You’ve been looking forward to an important event, everything is prepared and then it happens: the livestream doesn’t load, the video is jerky or an error message appears on your screen. Pure frustration! But don’t worry: most streaming problems can be fixed by yourself with a few simple steps.
As Stream1.eu, we know the technology behind professional live streaming from years of experience. We know where the most common stumbling blocks are and how you can avoid them. In this article, we will guide you step by step through the solutions so that you can get back on track quickly.
Step-by-step: Find and fix the cause of your livestream problems
The good news is that for most playback problems, the solution is in your hands. Work your way systematically through the following steps: from the simplest to the more complex solutions. In the vast majority of cases, you will be able to stream again without any problems after the first few steps.
Step 1: The classic – reload and clear cache
The simplest solution is often the best: completely reload the stream page. This will give you a fresh start when establishing the connection.
If this does not help, the browser cache may be the culprit. Temporary data accumulates here over time, which can block the player.
This is how it works: In your browser settings, look for the option to delete the history and cached data. Select “Cache” or “Cached images and files”. Then restart the browser and call up the stream again.
Our tip: You should always carry out this check first – it is quick to do and solves the most common call problems.
Step 2: The Internet check – Is your connection fast enough?
Live streams require a stable and sufficiently fast internet connection. Stuttering or buffering are typical signs of bandwidth problems.
Test your internet speed: Open a speed test website in a new browser tab and start the test with one click. Check the result: at least 5-10 Mbit/s should be available for HD streaming and 25 Mbit/s or more for 4K quality.
WLAN or cable? If you are connected via WLAN, the signal quality may fluctuate. This often manifests itself in sudden dropouts or video error messages.
Tip: If possible, connect your device directly to the router using a LAN cable. This ensures a much more stable connection. If this is not possible, position yourself closer to the router or connect other devices that are currently using a lot of bandwidth (downloads, other streams).
Step 3: The browser test – Try an alternative program
Not every browser works equally well with every stream format. Outdated browser versions or certain extensions (ad blockers, privacy tools) can cause playback problems.
This is how you proceed: First open the stream in another browser. Does it work perfectly there? Then the problem lies with the original browser. Then check whether your browser is up to date and deactivate all browser extensions as a test to see if the problem disappears.
Our tip: Temporarily deactivate all browser extensions, especially ad blockers. These sometimes also inadvertently block the video stream.
Step 4: The device check
Does the problem only occur on a specific device or everywhere? This question will bring you closer to the solution.
Test different devices: Try accessing the stream on your smartphone, tablet or another computer. Does the stream work there without any problems? Then the cause is clearly the original device. Does it not work anywhere? Then the problem could be with the stream itself.
The following measures can help with device-specific problems: First restart the device – this measure is often underestimated, but is very effective! Also check whether operating system updates are available and install them. Also check whether there is enough memory available on your device, as full memory can also lead to problems.
Step 5: The firewall and antivirus check
Your security software protects you, but it can also be overly cautious and block the video data stream by mistake.
The temporary check: Deactivate your firewall and your anti-virus program for a moment (most programs allow this for 10-15 minutes). Does the stream run afterwards? Then you have found the cause.
The clean solution: Then add the stream website to the whitelist (list of permitted apps/websites) in the settings of your security software so that the stream works permanently.
Step 6: The last step – help from Stream1.eu
You have gone through all the steps and the problem persists? Then the cause may not lie with you, but with the stream itself.
What you can do now: First contact the organizer of the broadcast and describe the problem. Also check the organizer’s website for information on technical problems. For streams provided via Stream1.eu, you can also contact our support directly.
Interference-free streaming – for viewers and organizers
With these six steps, you should be able to solve the vast majority of livestream problems yourself. Systematic troubleshooting will help you to quickly identify and rectify the cause.
Are you an event organizer and want to offer your viewers a flawless streaming experience without technical problems? As an experienced streaming partner, we at Stream1.eu ensure stable and reliable transmissions. Our professional infrastructure and support minimize outages and playback problems.
From conception and technical implementation to live support during your event: we accompany you through the entire process. Find out more about our streaming solutions for companies and event organizers here.
Do you have any questions or need support? Our team will be happy to help you. Contact us on 089 41 41 453 10
We will be happy to help you!
