IPTV means that TV channels and video content are sent over the internet. Here we go through how it works, what is required and where the pitfalls are.
What is IPTV?
Internet Protocol Television is an umbrella term for TV delivered as a data stream over an internet connection. You receive it in an app, a piece of software or a box, as opposed to an aerial, cable or satellite dish. The content can be live, played on demand (video on demand, VOD) or recorded.
How the technology works
- Encoding: The video is compressed, usually with H.264 or the more efficient H.265 (HEVC), so it can be sent without using up all your bandwidth.
- Streaming in segments: Protocols such as HLS and MPEG-DASH split the stream into short pieces and can switch quality depending on your connection. That is why the picture can get blurrier instead of stopping.
- Playback: An app or player puts the pieces together. Features such as time shifting (pausing and rewinding live broadcasts), catch-up and a programme guide (EPG) are built on the same technology.
What you need
- A stable internet connection, preferably by cable to the TV or player
- A device that can run a playback app: smart TV, phone, tablet, computer or media player
- A service or source that you have the right to use
Advantages
- Flexibility: the same service on several devices
- A large range, often with international channels
- Features such as a programme guide, playback afterwards and profiles
- Often shorter commitment periods than traditional TV
Disadvantages
- Requires a stable and fast connection, otherwise you get buffering
- Live broadcasts can be a few seconds behind
- Quality varies widely between services
- Rights can be unclear with smaller operators, see Is IPTV legal?
How to move on
Start by checking your connection and your devices, read the smart TV guide and then compare the options in our price comparison. If the picture stutters: how to get lag-free IPTV.
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