How to Livestream Without Cutting Out

Two years into the pandemic and unending virtual meetings, we have all experienced it. No, not the infamous, “You’re on mute,” but something just as bad. Stuttering. Voice cracking. Sound cutting in and out. The ever-frustrating “Can you hear me? I can’t hear you. Can you hear me?” It’s tough enough during a Zoom call when the WiFi is unstable and the connection refuses to stay connected. But what if you are planning to livestream? You tested the stream and it worked, so you released the date and time to your audience. Then showtime comes, everyone is waiting to watch, and then… it just won’t connect? Your credibility is seriously on the line.

#ProTip: To livestream, use a private WiFi network

One of the ways you can help create a consistent connection is to use a private WiFi network, one that no one else has access to. This gives you dedicated bandwidth and guarantees that if others are in the building (especially if there is a live in-person audience!) they won’t suck up your connection with their smartphones, computers and tablets. Hardwire ethernet is still more reliable, but at least a private WiFi connection removes one potential troublemaker from the mix. Then you can log on and feel confident that your coworkers aren’t going to inadvertently ruin your stream. Now, if only it was that easy to get them to refill the coffee…

Katie Rutter is the executive producer of Thing in a Pot Productions. She has received multiple awards for her work, including a nomination for a Chicago/Midwest Emmy in 2021 and being declared Video Producer of the Year in 2018 by the Catholic Press Association. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our video ProTips in your inbox every month!