Before You Go Live, Check Your Connection
A shaky internet connection is the #1 cause of choppy streams. The good news? A quick speed check and a few easy tweaks will set you up for a smooth show.
Minimum Speed Requirements
LyveCom uses your upload speed to send video to your viewers. Here's what to aim for:
| Setup | Upload Speed |
|---|---|
| Minimum | 5 Mbps |
| Recommended | 10 Mbps or more |
| OBS / RTMP streaming | 10 Mbps or more (3000 Kbps video bitrate) |
Check your speed now: Visit fast.com or speedtest.net from the device you'll stream on. Look for the upload number --- that's the one that counts.
Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet
Wired ethernet is always more reliable than Wi-Fi --- plug in directly if you can.
- Ethernet: Best choice. Stable, no interference, no drop-outs.
- Wi-Fi (5 GHz): Works great if you're close to the router.
- Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz): Prone to interference --- avoid for live shows if possible.
- Mobile (LTE/5G): Fine as a backup, but test your signal first.
Quick Tips for a Rock-Solid Stream
- Close any video calls, backups, or large downloads before going live.
- Restart your router beforehand --- it clears the cobwebs and can boost speed.
- Move closer to your router if you're on Wi-Fi.
- At a venue or retail space? Ask for a dedicated line separate from guest Wi-Fi.
- Using OBS? Set your video bitrate to 3000 Kbps for the best balance of quality and stability.
Stream Looking Choppy? Try This.
- Run a speed test on your streaming device --- check that upload speed.
- Switch to ethernet if you're on Wi-Fi.
- Disconnect other devices from the same network.
- Drop your OBS bitrate to 2000 Kbps if 3000 Kbps is causing issues.
- Restart your router and streaming device.
- Still below 5 Mbps? Contact your internet provider --- your plan may need an upgrade.
Have more questions? Reach out to our support team --- we're happy to help!
Happy streaming! ✨