Live Streaming Troubleshooting

Nothing is more frustrating for the viewer of a live stream than experiencing video playback issues. To have customers interacting with your content and encountering buffering or stuttering leads directly to reduced engagement with your brand. Whether the content is a webinar, gaming session, or music performance, technical issues can quickly derail your broadcast. As a live stream operator you want to avoid this scenario. Here’s some recommended workflows to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted live streaming experience.

  1. Internet Connection
    One of the most crucial factors affecting live streaming is a stable and reliable internet connection. Here are some troubleshooting steps to consider:
    • Check your internet speed: Use online tools to measure your upload speed, ensuring it meets the recommended requirements for your streaming platform. Note that upload speed is what matters here, not download speed.
    • Wired vs. wireless: Whenever possible, connect your streaming device directly to your router via an Ethernet cable instead of relying on a wireless connection. Wired connections tend to be more stable and offer faster upload speeds.
    • Bandwidth management: Ensure other devices on your network aren't consuming excessive bandwidth during your live stream. Pause or limit any downloads, streaming services, or cloud backups that may interfere with your connection. Ideally you want to be the only user of your network upload bandwidth.

  2. Hardware and Software Settings
    Properly configuring your hardware and software settings is essential for a smooth live streaming experience. Consider the following troubleshooting tips:
    • Encoder settings: Check your encoding software settings and ensure they match the recommended settings provided by your streaming platform. Pay attention to resolution, frame rate, bit rate, and codec settings.
    • CPU and GPU usage: Monitor your computer's CPU and GPU usage during the live stream. If they are maxed out, it can lead to buffering and dropped frames. Close unnecessary applications and processes to free up system resources.
    • Audio and video synchronization: Ensure that your audio and video are properly synced. Delayed audio can create an unpleasant viewing experience. Adjust the settings in your streaming software or use external audio synchronization tools if needed.

  3. Test and Rehearse
    Preparing and testing your live stream setup before going live can prevent many potential issues. Consider the following steps:
    • Test your equipment: Set up a test stream to verify that your camera, microphone, and other equipment are working correctly. This allows you to address any hardware issues in advance.
    • Conduct a dry run: Rehearse your live stream, going through the entire process as if it were a real broadcast. Pay attention to audio levels, transitions, and any overlays or graphics you plan to use.
    • Monitor stream health: Keep an eye on your stream health during the broadcast. Many streaming platforms provide real-time analytics and feedback, allowing you to identify and address any issues promptly.

  4. Backup Plans
    Even with meticulous preparation, technical glitches can still occur. Having contingency plans in place can help you handle unforeseen situations:
    • Backup internet connection: If your primary internet connection fails, have a backup option ready, such as a mobile hotspot or a secondary wired connection.
    • Spare equipment: Keep spare equipment, like cameras, microphones, or cables, on hand in case of equipment failure. This ensures you can quickly replace any faulty components and resume your stream.
    • Communication with the audience: If technical issues arise during the live stream, communicate with your audience. Inform them about the problem, apologize for the inconvenience, and provide updates on when the issue will be resolved.

Live streaming troubleshooting is an essential skill for content creators and broadcasters. By paying attention to internet connectivity, optimizing hardware and software settings, conducting thorough testing, and having backup plans in place, you can minimize disruptions and deliver a seamless live streaming experience.

Four Rivers has extensive experience with live streaming events. If you’d like to be walked through the preparation, or cover more advanced scenarios, we’d love to help with that.