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Common Streaming Issues

Troubleshoot and solve common problems you might encounter while streaming

Quick Links

Connection IssuesPerformance and CPU UsageAudio ProblemsPlatform-Specific IssuesStreaming Software Issues

Connection Issues

Symptoms

  • Stream frequently disconnects
  • Viewers experience constant buffering
  • Poor stream quality or pixelation

Solutions

  1. Run an internet speed test to verify your upload bandwidth
  2. Use a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi
  3. Lower your stream bitrate to match your available upload speed
  4. Close background applications that might be using bandwidth
  5. Reset your router if you experience intermittent connection issues

Performance and CPU Usage

Symptoms

  • Stream feels laggy or choppy
  • High dropped frames in your streaming software
  • CPU usage is very high during streaming

Solutions

  1. Use a faster encoder preset (e.g., "ultrafast" or "veryfast" in OBS)
  2. Lower your stream resolution (e.g., from 1080p to 720p)
  3. Reduce frame rate from 60fps to 30fps
  4. Close unnecessary applications while streaming
  5. Enable hardware encoding if your GPU supports it

Audio Problems

Symptoms

  • Audio and video out of sync
  • Echo or feedback in your audio
  • Background noise or static
  • Audio too quiet or not being captured

Solutions

  1. Add a small audio sync offset in your streaming software settings
  2. Use headphones to prevent monitor feedback
  3. Add noise suppression or noise gate filters to your audio sources
  4. Check and adjust your microphone levels in your system settings
  5. Ensure the correct audio devices are selected in your streaming software

Platform-Specific Issues

Symptoms

  • Stream key not working
  • Content being automatically muted or blocked
  • Excessive stream delay

Solutions

  1. Reset your stream key in the platform settings
  2. Avoid copyrighted music and content in your streams
  3. Check platform-specific recommended settings
  4. Some platforms have inherent delays. Use low-latency mode if available

Streaming Software Issues

Symptoms

  • Software crashes during streaming
  • Black screen or sources not displaying
  • Recording works but streaming doesn't

Solutions

  1. Update to the latest version of your streaming software
  2. Run the software as administrator
  3. For games, try different capture methods (Game, Window, or Display Capture)
  4. Reset streaming software settings to default
  5. As a last resort, reinstall your streaming software

Advanced Diagnostics

If you're still experiencing issues after trying the solutions above, you can use these diagnostic tools to help identify the problem:

  • Streaming Software Logs

    In OBS, go to Help > Log Files > View Current Log. These logs contain valuable information about errors and performance issues.

  • Run a Stream Test

    Most streaming software allows you to test your stream without going live. Use this feature to troubleshoot issues before an actual stream.

  • Bandwidth Testing

    Use our built-in bandwidth test tool to check if your connection can handle your desired stream settings.

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