IPTV Explained: How It Works and What You Need

A plain explanation of what IPTV is, how it differs from cable and satellite, and the short list of things you need to use it.

What the term actually means

IPTV is television delivered over an internet connection instead of a coaxial cable or a satellite dish. The programme is the same; the delivery is different. That single change is what removes the dish, the engineer visit and the equipment rental.

How it differs from cable and satellite

Cable and satellite broadcast everything at once and your box picks a channel out of the stream. An internet service sends you only the channel you asked for. That is why it can carry a far larger line up and an on demand library without needing more hardware in your house.

What you need

A broadband connection, a device you already own and a subscription line. Around 15 Mbps is comfortable for HD and 30 Mbps or more for 4K. Smart TVs, phones, tablets, streaming sticks, computers and set top boxes are all supported.

What to expect on the first evening

You install a player, enter the line details and the guide fills in. Most people are watching within about fifteen minutes. If something does not look right, it is usually a single setting on the device rather than the service.

Getting started

If you have a question about any of the above, message us and a person will answer. Activation takes minutes, nothing renews on its own, and there is a seven day money back guarantee.