Whether you’re binge-watching the latest series or battling it out in an online game, a fast and stable internet connection is essential. But even with a solid plan from Aerial Internet Solutions, poor Wi-Fi setup or device overload can lead to buffering, lag, and frustration.

In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you get the most out of your home internet and Wi-Fi, so you can stream and game without interruptions.

1. Understand Your Internet Plan

Before optimizing your setup, make sure your internet plan matches your household’s needs.

Streaming Requirements:

• HD streaming: 5 Mbps per device
• 4K streaming: 25 Mbps per device

Gaming Requirements:

• Online gaming: 3–6 Mbps (but low latency is more important than speed)
• Game downloads/updates: 50+ Mbps recommended

Tip: If multiple people are streaming or gaming at once, consider upgrading to a higher-speed plan. Aerial Internet Solutions offers packages tailored for gamers and streamers. Just ask our team!

2. Use a Wired Connection for Gaming

Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not always ideal for gaming.

Why Ethernet is better:

• Lower latency (ping)
• More stable connection
• Faster download speeds

Best for:

• Gaming consoles (Xbox, PlayStation)
• Gaming PCs
• Streaming boxes (Apple TV, Roku)

If you can’t run a cable, consider powerline adapters or mesh Wi-Fi systems with Ethernet ports.

3. Optimize Your Wi-Fi Setup

Your router’s placement and settings can make or break your streaming and gaming experience.

Tips:

• Place your router centrally in your home.
• Elevate it off the floor and away from walls.
• Avoid interference from microwaves, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices.
• Use the 5 GHz band for faster speeds and less congestion (ideal for streaming and gaming).

Bonus Tip: Rename your Wi-Fi networks to clearly identify 2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz bands.

4. Prioritize Devices with QoS Settings

Most modern routers offer Quality of Service (QoS) settings that let you prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or activities.

Use QoS to:

• Prioritize gaming consoles during online matches.
• Ensure streaming devices get enough bandwidth during movie nights.
• Prevent background devices (like smart thermostats or cloud backups) from hogging bandwidth.

Check your router’s admin panel or app for QoS settings. Aerial Internet Solutions can help you configure it if needed.

5. Limit Background Usage

Streaming and gaming require consistent bandwidth. Background apps and devices can quietly eat into your connection.

What to watch for:

• Automatic updates (Windows, consoles, apps)
• Cloud backups (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive)
• Smart home devices syncing data

Solutions:

• Schedule updates for off-peak hours.
• Pause cloud syncs during gaming or streaming.
• Disconnect unused devices from Wi-Fi.

6. Upgrade Your Equipment

If your router is more than 4–5 years old, it might be time for an upgrade.

Look for:

• Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E routers for better speed and efficiency.
• Dual-band or tri-band models to reduce congestion.
• Mesh systems for large homes or tricky layouts.

At Aerial Internet Solutions, we offer a convenient rental program, which aims to keep your devices up to date. If something breaks, or it’s time for an upgrade, we’ll come switch it out for you at no extra cost!

7. Monitor Your Network

Keep tabs on your network to spot issues before they ruin your game or movie night.

Tools:

• Speed test apps (Ookla, Fast.com)
• Network monitoring apps (Fing, NetSpot)
• Router dashboards to see connected devices and usage

If you notice slow speeds or high latency, contact our support team. We’ll help diagnose and fix the issue.

8. Use Streaming-Optimized Devices

Not all streaming devices are created equal. Older models may struggle with HD or 4K content.

Recommended devices:

• Roku Ultra
• Apple TV 4K
• Nvidia Shield
• Smart TVs with updated firmware

Tip: Use Ethernet whenever possible for these devices, especially for 4K streaming.

9. Reduce Latency for Gaming

Latency (ping) is more important than speed for gaming. High latency causes lag, rubberbanding, and disconnects.

Ways to reduce latency:

• Use wired connections
• Close background apps
• Choose game servers close to your location
• Avoid peak usage times

Pro Tip: Aerial Internet Solutions’ local infrastructure helps reduce latency for southern Alberta gamers.

10. Know When to Call the Experts

Sometimes, DIY fixes aren’t enough. If you’re still experiencing lag, buffering, or dropped connections, it’s time to reach out.

We offer:

• Local tech support and troubleshooting
• Router rental program and setup help
• Internet plan upgrades tailored to your needs

Conclusion

Streaming and gaming should be smooth, immersive, and fun—not frustrating. With the right setup and support, your home internet can deliver the performance you need.

At Aerial Internet Solutions, we’re here to help southern Alberta stay connected, whether you're watching, playing, or both.

Need help optimizing your setup?

Call us at 825-632-2000 or email ais@aismail.ca.

Let’s make your home the ultimate entertainment hub!

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