What is IPTV and how does it work?
IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is TV delivered over your internet connection instead of cable or satellite. A provider streams live channels and on-demand video to an app on your TV, phone or computer. You get a TV guide, live channels and a movie and series library, without a dish or cable box.
How IPTV works
Channels are encoded into video streams and sent from the provider servers to your device over the internet. Your player app requests a channel, the stream starts within a second or two, and the app shows it with the programme guide (EPG). Because it is internet-based, the same subscription works on your TV, phone and laptop.
Live TV, VOD and catch-up
- Live TV: channels as they broadcast, with a guide of what is on now and next.
- VOD (video on demand): movies and series you start whenever you like.
- Catch-up: replay recent programmes on supported channels.
A premium service such as Smartiflix IPTV includes all three in one subscription.
IPTV vs. cable and satellite
| IPTV | Cable / satellite | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Internet | Cable line or dish |
| Equipment | Your own device | Rented box, dish install |
| Devices | TV, phone, tablet, computer | Mostly the TV with the box |
| Contract | Usually none | Often 12 to 24 months |
| Price | Typically lower | Typically higher |
What you need for IPTV
An internet connection of about 10 Mbps per HD screen, a compatible device and a subscription. The full checklist is in our guide on how to start an IPTV subscription.
Choosing a provider
Look for a free trial, clear prices, no automatic renewal, real support and a written refund policy. Our IPTV buyer checklist explains each point.
Common questions
Is IPTV the same as streaming apps?
Similar technology, different focus. Streaming apps are mostly on-demand libraries; IPTV adds hundreds or thousands of live channels with a TV guide.
Does IPTV use a lot of data?
About 1.5 to 3 GB per hour in HD and 7 GB or more per hour in 4K. Home broadband plans with no data cap are ideal.