Tag: Broadband

How do WiFi Extenders Work and Do they Really Work?

Last Updated: February 2, 2016

Written by:

How do WiFi Extenders Work and Do They Really Work?

Depending on the layout of your home and the location of your wireless router, you may encounter difficulty maintaining a strong Internet signal throughout your residence. This problem becomes obvious when you’re trying to stream videos or other types of data-rich media far away from your router. You’ve probably come to expect copious buffering and poor resolution whenever you’re a bit too far from the source of the signal.

In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of WiFi extenders: what they are, how they work, and how to use them properly to optimize the WiFi signal in your home. There are also a number of other tips and tricks that you can use to increase the range of your router and ensure full coverage. We’ll cover those too.

Take a look at the list of topics and select the one you want to read most. Or, simply read through for a full guide on everything you need to know about WiFi extenders and home internet coverage.

What is WiFi?

WiFi is a type of radio signal that uses radio waves to transmit a signal from your router to your device. WiFi is unique in that it is made to be compatible with ethernet cables, which are the wired counterpart to the wireless WiFi signal.

Contrary to popular belief, “WiFi” is not short for “wireless fidelity”, though the term’s similarity to the words “hi-fi” and “lo-fi” (short for high fidelity and low fidelity, terms from music recording) have led many to think so. The term was actually coined by a brand agency in the late 1990’s and is surprisingly meaningless. The agency simply needed a better, more consumer-friendly name than the technical term for the sort of signal protocol that WiFi actually is: IEEE 802.11.

So, what do you really need to know? Basically, WiFi is a radio signal. That means, like other radio signals, it can be blocked by certain materials, and certain locations and geographic positions can make it harder to transmit. Have you ever tried driving through a parking garage while listening to AM radio? The concrete obstructs the waves, making the signal break up or drop out entirely. WiFi is similarly susceptible to obstruction (though not quite as sensitive as AM radio), and because it’s a fairly concentrated signal, can only be picked up within a smaller range. That can lead to some headaches.

Why is my WiFi signal weak?

A weak WiFi signal can be caused by a number of factors which can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Before you spring for a WiFi range extender (more on that next), it’s smart to first figure out what the cause of your WiFi troubles actually is.

Does your router affect internet speed? Absolutely. If it’s not simply that you’re too far from the router—if there’s actually something else going on—then getting the extender won’t solve your connectivity issues. If you keep losing connection, experiencing videos buffering, or simply can’t connect to your network, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

  • First, determine whether the problem is with your WiFi or your device. Try to connect using a different device. If the WiFi won’t load on your laptop, for instance, but loads just fine on your phone (and your phone is connected to the WiFi and not using your data plan), then the problem is likely with your laptop.
  • If the problem is with your device, one simple solution is to turn it off, then turn it back on again. Cycling the device’s system is a good way to refresh any blockages that may be keeping it from connecting to the WiFi. You may also need to check your device’s network settings and ensure that WiFi connectivity is switched on.
  • If you determine that the problem is not with your device, then it may be time to consider your router. As with all things, your first troubleshooting option is to reboot the router. Depending on your model, it may have a clearly indicated power button. If it does, simply press that, wait, then press it again. If not, you can unplug the router, wait a few seconds, then plug it back in.
  • If that still doesn’t work, some routers do have hard reset functions. This usually requires using an unfolded paper clip or pin to press a small button in a small hole somewhere on the back panel of the router. Press it, then simply let the router restart itself. (Be sure to look up your specific router model to ensure you don’t need to take any further actions after the hard reset button has been pushed.)
  • Finally, if none of those measures work, it may be time to give your internet service provider a call. You may need a repair technician to come out and fix it.

If your WiFi seems to be functioning properly but becomes weak the further you get from your router—this is especially likely if you live in a large house or property—then the problem is most likely that your router is not strong enough to reach where you need it. In that case, a WiFi extender may be just what you need.

What is a WiFi Range Extender?

A WiFi range extender is a device that repeats the signal emitted by your router. Think of it as a little booster for your router’s signal, pushing the WiFi connection out over a broader area. WiFi range extenders offer a relatively inexpensive way to spread your wireless signal throughout your home.

You can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150 for a decent model. They typically plug directly into a wall socket, so you are able to place the unit closer to where you do your most bandwidth-intensive internet activity. So, what does a WiFi extender do differently from a router? Not much; they extend the same signal further along.

Many models support dual band routers, so you’ll be able extend the signal of both networks at your home if your extender allows it; many people have both a 2.4G and 5G network. If both your router and the range extender support WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) technology, a simple button push on both devices transfers the network password information to the extender. That makes it simple and easy for someone trying to get onto your network using the extender, provided they know the password.

Look for your network name on your streaming device, usually appended with an “EXT,” log on with your password, and commence viewing. Additionally, be sure to perform a quick speed test to verify the internet speed through the extender is good enough for high quality video. In most cases, the improved wireless signal strength makes a noticeable difference in internet performance.

Do WiFi extenders work?

Definitely—they’re designed to pick up the signal transmitted by your WiFi router, then boost it so it can be picked up in a wider area. Do note that WiFi extenders don’t speed up your internet connection, or add Mbps to your internet speed. Those aspects of your internet connection are determined by your router and your internet service plan.

Note: A WiFi range extender is also not the source of your WiFi signal, and cannot be used to connect to the internet without a router and internet service provider. WiFi extenders solely extend the router signal; they do not create an internet-connected signal of their own.

How do WiFi range extenders work?

WiFi is a type of radio signal, and like any radio signal, it can be repeated by the right kind of device following the right protocol. WiFi routers’ signals can be repeated by using a WiFi range extender, which simply receives the WiFi signal, then using its own broadcasting abilities, sends it out to a wider area centered on the location of the WiFi range extender.

How do WiFi range extenders work? Basically the same way routers do, just without being the origin of the WiFi signal.

Setting up your WiFi extender

The setup for your specific model of WiFi extender will depend on the brand and model of the specific device. However, there are some general similarities you can expect to find in most WiFi range extenders. Follow these general setup rules to help your extender work as efficiently as possible.

  • After you purchase the device, the first step you’ll have to take is to unbox it and plug it in. You should see indicator lights turn on at this point, showing that the WiFi extender is functioning.
  • Usually, the extender emits a default signal; usually it’s just the name of the brand, plus EXT or some other abbreviation indicating that the signal is coming from the extender.
  • By following the instructions on the box or within the setup manual, you should be able to find the website that allows you to interface with the extender. Using a code, you can then set up your administrator credentials.
  • Once all that is set up, most models allow you to connect your extender to the main source of your WiFi through the administrator end of the setup site.
  • This should create a new network based on your original WiFi network.

The benefits of WiFi extenders

Now that you’re familiar with WiFi, WiFi extenders, and how they both work, you’re probably wondering if you need one. There’s no simple answer because it is highly dependent on your personal situation, the size of your home, and where you feel that you need WiFi. There are, however, a number of benefits to outfitting your home with a WiFi extender.

Check out these advantages to help you decide whether a WiFi extender makes sense for your situation:

  • WiFi extenders boost your network, creating a larger area of signal coverage.
  • Larger homes with many rooms and floors may experience fewer connectivity issues.
  • Move from room to room knowing that you won’t lose signal.
  • Having a wider signal decreases the chances you’ll experience dead zones.
  • Those with back houses, separate guest suites, or granny flats can extend the range of their WiFi to accommodate the space.
  • Backyard WiFi access is faster, improving outdoor work from home sessions and leisure browsing.

Another benefit that WiFi extenders offer is that they make it possible to connect many devices all across your house. If you fully embrace the Internet of Things at your residence and encounter difficulty controlling the devices residing the farthest from your router, purchasing a range extender or two needs to be considered. They can definitely help optimize the performance of your digital smart home.

Most of the major companies producing routers, like Linksys and Netgear, also manufacture range extenders. Research the various models online or at a brick and mortar store to determine which model offers the best performance for the price. If you live in a large house, a range extender may be your best option to improve your home network performance.

Tips & tricks: How to place a WiFi extender

Once you’ve decided to purchase a WiFi range extender and are ready to set it up, it’s smart to follow a few tips and tricks that will allow you to fully enjoy the benefits of your extended WiFi. Finding just the right spot for your router and extenders can take a bit of work, but it’s worth it in the long run. When you’re getting ready to set up, check out these tips:

  • Place your router in or near the rooms in the home where the internet is most often used. For instance, if you do a lot of work from home, your home office may be the ideal place to set up your router. If you’ve got a comfy home theater setup where you stream 4K HD movies, that’s probably the room to put the router.
  • Once your router is set up, it’s time to think about where you’ll put your extender. The key is to find the sweet spot: close enough to the router that it picks up a solid signal, but not so close that there’s barely any reason to have it in the first place.

Most routers can reach between 150 and 200 feet, depending on the walls in your home and a few other factors — there may even be a time of day when internet is fastest. Ensure that your extender is within that range for best results.

  • WiFi range extenders are expensive devices, so it’s wisest not to place them in rooms where they might easily be damaged. If you do have an extender in the kitchen, plug it in far enough away from the sink and frequently-used counters space that it won’t be splashed. If it’s in a garage, keep it away from tool benches and power tools.
  • Make sure that your router and WiFi extender are password protected. With the extended range, your network will become detectable to many more devices than before. Choosing a secured password that includes a mix of capital and lower-case letters, numbers, and unique characters is ideal for a WiFi password that won’t easily be hacked.

Once your WiFi extender is set up, you can use a WiFi speed test to ensure that the signal broadcast from the repeater is about as good as the one broadcast from your router. Small differences in speed are expected, and often caused by other factors. But if you notice that the speed on your extended WiFi is much slower than the speed on your router’s network, something may have gone wrong during setup — most likely, the extender was simply placed too far from the router.

Having fast, responsive internet can massively improve your quality of life, making work more productive, and entertainment more enjoyable. Don’t sacrifice for less; use Bandwidth Place’s WiFi speed test and informative blog content to help you ensure you’re getting the internet service you deserve.

About the Authors

Read More

Google’s New Chromecast Ups the Ante for Cord Cutters

Last Updated: December 10, 2015

Written by:

With Cupertino upping the video streaming competition with their new Apple TV and its tvOS operating system offering a platform for games and apps, Google naturally counters that action with an enhanced Chromecast. As more users take advantage of fast Internet speeds to watch TV shows and movies, the market for video streaming devices continues to grow.

Does the updated Chromecast 2 offer enough new functionality for current owners to upgrade or interested cord cutters to make the leap? Let’s look more closely at its new features.

Cutting the cable cord

The Chromecast Offers an Inexpensive Entry Point into Video Streaming

The best feature of the Google Chromecast is quite possibly its price, assuming your Internet provider offers unlimited bandwidth. (If not it’s always imperitive to watch your data usage when streaming rich media content over the Internet.) At only $35, the Chromecast 2 ranks at the lower end of the price range compared to similar devices, like the Roku or Apple TV.

The Chromecast allows you to “cast” rich media content to your TV at 1080p resolution from your iOS or Android mobile device or your laptop running the Windows, OS X, or Chrome operating systems. The new model supports dual band routers (2.4 and 5 GHz), including Google’s own OnHub. You also have the option to use a wired Ethernet connection for streaming, which is probably only useful if your entertainment center is close to your modem.

To initiate streaming you access an app or browser on another device, but you are then able to use that device for other activity while the Chromecast streams the content uninterrupted. It also offers built-in support for Google Play content, YouTube, a photo browser, and the Chrome web browser. The new Chromecast model sports a small HDMI cable, offering added flexibility when connecting it to your TV or AV receiver.

Chromecast Support on a Wide Array of Apps, Including Sling TV

Many streaming media apps offer support for the Chromecast. In fact, Sling TV just introduced support in early November. The company is even offering a free Chromecast device when subscribing for three months of Sling TV at $20 per month — a deal worth considering if you are new to either product.

The updated Chromecast app provides a neat feature that allows you to download any app that supports casting to the device in one fell swoop. This new app is even available for the original Chromecast, so be sure to update yours if you haven’t yet.  The new cross platform search feature lets you look for content in any compatible app using either text or voice.

Ultimately if you already own a Chromecast you probably don’t need the new model unless you want to take advantage of a dual band router. Support for the routers does ensure a great streaming experience providing your Internet speed is good. But if you are interested in an easy to use and inexpensive video streaming device – music too – the Chromecast needs to be considered. Its compatibility with nearly every mobile and desktop operating system makes it a smart choice for many.

About the Authors

Read More

Comparing Different Types of Internet Service Providers

Last Updated: August 31, 2015

Written by:

About the Authors

Read More

Three Tips on Optimizing Home Network Speed

Last Updated: August 27, 2015

Written by:

In this era of Internet streaming video, home automation, and online gaming, the venerable old home network gets a serious workout. Keeping things running smoothly is a must if you want the most out of your bandwidth investment. Knowing how to properly manage your modem (fiber, cable, or DSL) and router plays a big role in the efficiency of your WiFi network.

Here are a few tips on optimizing home network speed to ensure the best possible performance.

optimize home network speed

Regularly Perform an Internet Speed Test

Get into the habit of performing an Internet speed test on a regular basis. Without a real understanding of your actual bandwidth, and any differences between your test results and your ISP’s promised service level, it becomes difficult to set expectations for the performance of your home network. Keep a log of your test results in case you notice repeated discrepancies between the tested result and the speed promised by your service provider.

Be Sure to Occasionally Reboot Your Modem

No matter the type of connection used in your Internet service, occasionally rebooting your modem by shutting it off for 30 seconds and then powering it on helps to keep your Internet connection running smoothly. Do this at least once per month or more frequently if you experience slow performance. Rebooting your router at the same time can also help. This is another great reason to test your Internet speed on a regular basis.

Read and Understand Your Router Manual

Not surprisingly, your wireless router offers you the best opportunity to improve the network performance at your residence. In fact, investing in a high-end dual band router gives you additional flexibility in management. Devices primarily used for video streaming and other high bandwidth tasks are able to reside on their own band, with optimized performance as a result.

Understanding the more esoteric functionality of a premium router lets you do things like beamforming, which allows optimizing the wireless signal for specific devices on your network. This is a smart trick to play if the family is watching an HD movie on Netflix with too much buffering ruining the show.

Router placement within your residence also matters when it comes to streaming performance. Watch out for too many walls or appliances (especially a microwave oven) between your wireless router and any bandwidth consuming devices.

Here’s hoping these few tricks give you the insight to optimize your home WiFi network’s performance, so you and your family are able to truly enjoy your Internet service.

About the Authors

Read More

Google Alphabet and the Future of Google Fiber

Last Updated: August 25, 2015

Written by:

The news that Google plans to reorganize its corporate structure, creating a new holding company called “Alphabet” hit the tech industry hard recently. The Internet search and advertising giant wants more emphasis placed on the offshoots from its main business. These include the Nest smart home device company, and Google Fiber, the “One Gig” Internet service, currently expanding across the country at a glacial pace.

Google alphabet blocks

What other reasons lurk behind Google’s restructuring? Does this mean your dreams for maxing out a Google Fiber speed test are about to come true? Let’s take a closer look at the details.

Are Privacy Concerns Part of Google’s Move to Alphabet?

Some technology pundits speculate public concerns about Google spying on Internet usage through Google Fiber as one of the reasons for their corporate restructuring. The ability to tap into someone’s home life through a Nest device is another worry. Google’s parsing through Gmail users’ emails and serving them advertising related to the content in those emails still haunts many Internet regulars. As separate companies, the hope is that fear becomes somewhat mitigated.

Another major reason to restructure involves quelling investor fears that Google is only able to generate significant revenue through Internet advertising. Ad revenue made up $16 billion of the $17.7 billion earned by Google in its most recent quarter. But simply reshuffling the corporate deck won’t necessarily make Alphabet’s subsidiaries successful by themselves.

Does Project Fi Stay Separate from Google Fiber?

Google’s own wireless Internet initiative, Project Fi, stayed mostly under the radar since its announcement in April. Leveraging portions of Sprint and T-Mobile’s networks, Fi offers an innovative pricing scheme that actually refunds part of your monthly bill if you don’t use your 3GB data allowance. Like Fiber, Fi’s rollout progresses slowly. According to CEO-designate, Sundar Pichai, Google uses the service to highlight innovations it feels the four major carriers need to implement.

Does Google end up combining their Fiber and Fi projects under one umbrella within Alphabet? That remains to be seen, but the company’s earlier comments about Project Fi being used to pressure major carriers into product innovations raises a question whether the ultimate purpose of Fiber itself is similar.

With the recent announcement of San Antonio as the next “Fiber City,” the Northeast and Midwest parts of the country still feel left out. The question remains whether most of the nation gets to enjoy Google Fiber anytime soon. As Google finishes its corporate transformation pay close attention to any Google Alphabet news between now and the end of the year to see if the company speeds up their Fiber rollout.

About the Authors

Read More

Six Ways to Get the Best Internet Service Deals

Last Updated: August 20, 2015

Written by:

Everybody likes a deal, right? When it comes to Internet service, there’s no reason to pay any more than a competitive rate, especially for a non-wireless service. With that in mind, here are six tips for finding the best Internet service deals.

Finding Internet Service deals

1. Understand the Differences between the Types of Internet Service

Before searching for deals, research the different types of Internet services and their typical maximum speed. $50 per month for 5GB of data on a wireless service isn’t a good deal compared to $75 per month for unlimited fiber broadband.

2. Determine How Much Bandwidth You Need

It is important to figure out how much bandwidth you need based on your Internet usage before shopping for ISPs. If you rarely stream video content, you will be able to get by with less bandwidth than someone who watches 3 hours of Netflix every night. Don’t pay for more Internet than you use.

3 Find the ISPs serving your Location

Finding a great deal on Internet access means little if the ISP in question doesn’t offer service in your area. Simply enter your ZIP code on this page to find great deals on ISPs serving your city.

4. Bundles, Bundles, Bundles

Bundling your Internet service with Digital TV and Phone is a great way to save money. DirecTV and AT&T customers will soon see some interesting package deals after their recent merger. Be sure to read the fine print, since most bundles require a contract with early termination fees.

5. Optimize Your Bandwidth

Investing in a top of the line wireless router lets you get the most out of your bandwidth. This lets you spend a little less on your ISP and still be able to stream videos and other rich media formats with little problem. Check out these tips for optimizing your bandwidth.

6. Know When to Haggle

Haggling with a customer service rep is a great way to get a better deal on your Internet service package. If you live in an area with multiple ISPs, simply threaten to leave for one of their competitors. When subscribing to a bundle package with Digital Phone service — and you aren’t still under a contract — mention Vonage or other similar services. Chances are good you’ll receive a lower monthly payment.

Following these simple tips ensures you won’t spend too much on Internet service. Remember to do your research, and don’t be shy about haggling for the best possible deal.

About the Authors

Read More

HBO Now Broadband Considerations

Last Updated: July 19, 2015

Written by:

These days more and more consumers are willing to forego their satellite and cable TV subscriptions in favor on building their own a la carte service using on demand video streaming devices like the Roku, Chromecast, or Apple TV. HBO is helping matters by creating their own standalone service under the moniker of HBO Now. If you are considering a similar cord-cutting move, you’ll need to make sure your resident Internet service is able to properly handle video streaming.

With high quality video streaming in mind, let’s take a closer look at HBO Now and its potential effect on your Internet bandwidth.

HBO Now Broadband

HBO Now Exclusive to Apple – For Now

When HBO Now first launched in April, the company gave Apple an exclusive on the service for three months. The app has been wildly successful at the iTunes App Store, topping the revenue charts for the month of May. Consumers are able to download the app for free, but a subscription comes with a monthly fee of $14.99, which provides access to HBO’s library of movies and original content — everything from the Sopranos to Game of Thrones.

With Apple’s HBO Now exclusive about the end, the service will become available on the Google Play Store, Chromecast, and other devices. If you are interested in finding out when you can get HBO Now for your device, submit your email address to HBO at their Now page. HBO also offers an introductory free trial so you can see if the on demand video service warrants spending a monthly fee.

What About HBO Now Broadband Capabilities?

When streaming HQ video over the Internet, a speed of 5 Mbps is a good benchmark to ensure a quality experience without extra buffering or stuttering video. Always perform regular speed tests to make sure your ISP offers enough bandwidth for your streaming needs.

While 5 Mbps works well as a baseline Internet service, if multiple people share the Internet service at your residence, more bandwidth is necessary to ensure everyone enjoys rich media streaming with minimal issues. Video streaming and online gaming tend to use the most bandwidth. Check out these four tips to improve the Internet performance at your house.

Once you get HBO Now, and sufficient bandwidth to handle it, you’ll easily be able to check in on the latest doings in Westeros either at home or on the road.

About the Authors

Read More

Net Neutrality Pros and Cons Based on the Latest FCC Ruling

Last Updated: July 7, 2015

Written by:

The recent FCC ruling in favor of the concept of Net Neutrality remains controversial. Some feel it insures a level playing field for those new companies looking to innovate in Internet-related industries, while others disagree, saying it will stifle the larger companies’ investment in improving their network infrastructure. But how does the ruling affect the individual consumer of Internet services?

If you are interested in learning more about the basics of Net Neutrality, check out this quick primer. And then read on to examine Net Neutrality pros and cons and how the FCC’s ruling might impact your daily Internet life.

FCC ruling on Net Neutrality

Better Internet Access in Rural Areas

According to the FCC’s Net Neutrality ruling the Internet is now classified as a public utility so it is reasonable to expect improved Internet access in rural regions. This one of the reasons the FCC raised the minimum data download rate to 25 Mbps in order to be considered a “high speed” connections. This new FCC standard was actually issued just before the Commission’s Net Neutrality ruling, but the two are definitely related.

If you are stuck in an area where satellite Internet service — along with its throttled data — is your only option, expect wireless and fiber optic providers to soon serve your location. In fact, Frontier Communications recently accepted $283 million from the FCC to expand their service in rural regions, despite complaining about the ruling when it was first issued.

Data Throttling Not Allowed

Internet service providers are no longer allowed to throttle or slow your data if you regularly enjoy streaming video or other rich media content on demand. The FCC ruling explicitly forbids slowing data access from specific websites.  ISPs are also unable to create a tiered system where they charge content providers like Netflix or HBO a higher price for access to an “Internet fast lane.” Of course, the expectation is those higher prices would have been passed on to the individual consumer.

Will a Better Regulated and Transparent Fee Structure Lead to Lower Prices?

One of the reasons the FCC preempted their Net Neutrality decision with a new definition of high speed Internet service was because of the ruling’s new requirements for the regulation of Internet fees. No longer can an ISP sell you a 5 Mbps service and call it broadband. The FCC hopes the added transparency leads to lower prices or at least a more informed consumer.

As with any technical issue, once the politicians become involved, the truth sometimes gets lost. Continue to pay attention to Net Neutrality in the news to see if these promised benefits become reality.

About the Authors

Read More

Streaming Movies with MGO

Last Updated: June 25, 2015

Written by:

Streaming movies over the Internet continues to be a growing technology trend in the world of digital entertainment. MGO, or M-GO, is another Internet video on demand service offering a full range of recent movies and TV shows for your streaming pleasure. The service’s major industry competition includes the standard list of names: Netflix, Amazon Prime, iTunes, etc.

Formed in 2013, M-GO offers customers a free subscription, but renting individual shows and movies costs a nominal fee. The service is available on many smart TVs and streaming devices like the Roku and Chromecast.

Streaming movies with M-GO

M-GO Focuses on First Run Movies Before the Competition

One of M-GO’s biggest advantages over the competition involves its deals with a variety of Hollywood studios allowing you to stream movies as soon as they are released on DVD or Blu-Ray. Streaming current TV shows soon after their network air date is another possibility.

As a subscriber you are allowed to rent movies for a 24-hour period; expect to pay a fee between $4 and $6 per movie. TV shows, on the other hand, can only be purchased. The typical price for a whole season ranges from $10 to $40, while individual episodes can be bought for $2 to $3. SD-quality content is slightly less expensive than the HD equivalent.

M-GO’s content prices are comparable to other streaming video services with free subscriptions. Netflix allows free streaming for one nominal fee per month, but that service’s library of content changes on an almost weekly basis. Amazon Prime also offers a host of other benefits, including free two-day shipping, with its service.

MGO Keeps your Bandwidth Burning

Since the M-GO subscription costs nothing, consider it another worthy option for streaming movies or TV shows if you can’t find a certain program or Hollywood blockbuster on one of the other VOD services. As mentioned earlier, the company’s connections in the movie industry sometimes gives it access to the latest films before the other services.

Of course with any video streaming service, make sure your home Internet service is up to snuff. Always perform regular speed tests to ensure your ISP provides sufficient bandwidth to seamlessly stream movies in HD. With all this in mind, M-GO might become your best bet for the latest in digital entertainment.

About the Authors

Read More

HBO Online More Available Than Ever With HBO Go and HBO Now

Last Updated: May 19, 2015

Written by:

With many content providers and media companies getting in the video on-demand game, it comes as no surprise that HBO also entered the fray with their HBO Go online streaming service. Now you are able to keep up with the Targaryens, Starks, and Lannisters by streaming the wildly popular Game of Thrones no matter your location — Westeros, Essos, or even beyond the Wall.

If you already subscribe to HBO through your satellite or cable television provider, you simply need to download the HBO Go app for either the iOS or Android platforms to stream HBO online content wherever you may wander. Additionally, cordcutters are now also able to enjoy the premium television service by subscribing to the new HBO Now service. Let’s take a closer look at how these HBO online services compare.

HBO Go and HBO Now online

Differences Between HBO Go and HBO Now

As mentioned earlier, the simplest way to look at HBO’s two video streaming offerings is the following. HBO Go allows those who subscribe to the premium movie channel through their cable or satellite service to enjoy on-demand streaming of HBO movies and TV shows on their mobile device. HBO Now, on the other hand, provides the same functionality without first subscribing to cable or satellite TV.

An HBO Now subscription costs $15 per month, which is comparable to paying for the channel on your satellite or cable service. This option launched in early April 2015, exclusively for owners of an Apple TV box or an iOS device, like the iPhone or iPad. After an initial three month period, HBO Now becomes available on other platforms, including Android mobile devices, and probably other video-on-demand products, like the Roku and Chromecast.

iOS users note that the HBO Now app is compatible with iOS 7.0 and greater. For comparison’s sake, the HBO Go app supports iOS 5.0 and greater.

Make sure your Internet Bandwidth handles HD Video Streaming

When using either HBO Go or HBO Now, remember to perform regular Internet speed tests to ensure you’re getting enough bandwidth to stream HD-quality video without hiccups or too much buffering. At least 5 Mbps is a good benchmark for HD video streaming, but 10 Mbps works better, especially if you have multiple users accessing your router.

HBO Go and HBO Now offer users an easy way to stream quality HBO online movies and TV shows when on the go. As more consumers eschew regular cable and satellite TV service, expect more content providers to follow HBO’s lead with their own streaming products. 

About the Authors

Read More