How do I resolve buffering issues on Sling TV?

If your Sling TV is having streaming or buffering issues, here's everything you need to do to resolve the problem, quickly and efficiently.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Aug 19, 2019

Buffering or lagging on Sling TV can be very annoying especially when you are watching your favorite TV show.

If you are experiencing this kind of problem, it's your lucky day. In this article, we will discuss three fixes that will help resolve your buffering issues on Sling TV.

Fix #One: Run Internet Speed Test

Sling TV operation entirely depend on the internet. The better the speed the better the streaming capability. For it to function effectively you should have internet connections of:

  • At least 3MBPS for portable devices like phone and tablets.
  • At least 5MBPS for single stream videos on TV, Mac, or PC.
  • At least 25MBPS when using multiple devices to stream videos.

Probably, you have these connections in place. Have you ever stopped to think whether you are getting the speeds you paid for from your provider? It's not unusual to pay for certain internet package just end up getting a fraction of the intended speed. That's why you need to run a speed test and this is how you do it.

  • Open any browser and Google search speed test.
  • Select the first option on the list and click on Run Speed Test, which appears as a blue button on the right-hand corner of the speed test panel.
  • Wait while Google measures your upload and download speeds.
  • Review the results and act accordingly.

If your speed is fine and still experiencing the buffering problem, then you can:

  • Unplug your router and modem.
  • Wait for 30 seconds and plug them back.
  • Allow them to connect.
  • Restart the device you were trying to stream on.
  • Connect to the Wi-Fi and try streaming Sling TV to see if there are any improvements.

Fix #Two: Introduce a Range Extender

Weak Wi-Fi signal can be a cause of buffering on your Sling TV. In fact, it is one of the most common problems. But how do you determine your Wi-Fi strength? Just check on your device Wi-Fi properties and you will learn of its strength. If you discover it's weak, you need to consider introducing a range extender. Buying a Wi-Fi network like Google Wi-Fi Systems is always a great plus. It helps to fill all the weak spots in your house. One crucial factor to consider when buying a range extender, is that it's made by the same manufacturer as the router you're using

Fix #Three: Update or Replace the Router

If the two fixes above have failed to work, then it's time to update or replace your router. When going for a new router always consider getting the ones that integrates a Wi-Fi AC standard. Upgrading from the former obsolete N standard to AC standard will help in boosting your internet speed.

Importantly, old routers are not designed to handle many devices. That's why just like phones, you need to keep on getting upgrades and updating them.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.
How do I resolve buffering issues on Sling TV?

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