If you’re looking for alternatives to cable TV, you might have looked into a few streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu. However, these services are lacking when it comes to live programming, sports, and news. In addition, they each have their own exclusives, so you’ll have to get multiple services. It’s not like a Charter cable connection, for example, where you get a myriad of live programming and channels. So, if you want to access all kinds of shows and do not want to get multiple services, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) might be the right choice for you.
IPTV basically means that you’ll be able to access live programming on a number of channels through your internet connection. However, it’s not as simple as cutting your cable connection and finding the channels online. You have to find a reliable IPTV provider who offers the right services. These services include Video-On-Demand, which puts them a notch above both cable TV and streaming services. If you’re wondering how you can choose and set up an IPTV service, here’s a quick checklist to go through.
Is the Provider Legitimate?
The biggest problem with IPTV services is that there is no way to tell whether your provider has a legitimate license or not. As this service offers you access to numerous channels without licensing or geographical limitation, there might be some shady legal areas.
Therefore, you should do your research and look at reviews people have left for the service. In addition, if someone you know is using an IPTV service, talk to them about their experience. Customer experience is a great way to gauge how good your provider is.
What Are The Payment Options?
There are numerous IPTV services out there offering services at various budgets. However, this is one case where it is better to go for a premium option. There are even a few free IPTV services out there, but they do not offer enough to really be considered a good replacement for cable TV.
So, if you have the budget, go for a premium IPTV subscription. Just make sure your provider is using legitimate banking services and payment methods to be sure about their legitimacy.
Do You Need Multiple Connections?
If you’re just going to use your smart TV with your IPTV service, then you can make things work with a single device connection. Many IPTV services only work with one device, and you have to pay for more connections for other devices.
So, you should carefully consider which devices you actually use to watch TV, and make the decision accordingly. You can just get one connection for your TV, and enjoy the programming there.
Which Channels Do You Want?
There might be some geographical differences with the channel offerings your IPTV service has. However, these services also offer channel customization, so you can pick what you want. This might be expensive, so think about it carefully.
To start with, you should check your IPTV’s Electronic Program Guide (EPG). The EPG will let you explore all the channels, networks, and genres the IPTV service is offering, so you can decide accordingly. Always ask your provider for the link to their EPG before subscribing to their service, so you can be sure you’re getting all the channels you want.
Is It Compatible With VPNs?
As the legality of IPTV services can be vague, there might be licensing issues with the networks which own various channels. Therefore, to protect yourself from any liability, use a VPN service with your IPTV service. First, make sure that the service does support VPNs.
This VPN will mask your location and identity, so you’ll be safe from any tracking by internet service providers and surveillance agencies. It can also let your access any content blocked due to geographical limitations. So, do invest in a good VPN service with your IPTV.
Is the Customer Service Reliable?
Customer service makes all the difference when choosing between multiple services. Get in touch with various IPTV service providers and see how each of them interacts with you. See how well and quickly they respond to queries and how willing they are to accommodate you.
Furthermore, check out customer reviews so that you know what sort of experience others had with the provider. This way, if you face any issues with your IPTV connection, you know that the provider will respond on time and fix the problem.
To sum up, getting an IPTV service is a great way to cut yourself off from cable TV. You just need to do your research and be vigilant with your choice of provider.
