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Willy asked: “Question about Samsung Smart TV. We do a lot of streaming on Hulu, Netflix and Amazon. My problem is my TV stops and does the little “turning thing” for a while and then starts playing again. Is there any device that you know of that will boost the signal to my router to make viewing movies more pleasant?”
Willy, there are devices that may help you with your problem but, before you buy anything, make sure that’s actually your problem.
If you move the TV closer to your router, does the streaming issue stop? If it doesn’t the issue may be with your connection speed more than with your signal strength.
If it does what you’re looking for is a WiFi repeater. There are many different kinds, from the simple plug in the wall and it will rebroadcast whatever it gets, to complex systems where different units talk to each other and rearrange their antennas to provide better coverage automatically.
The simplest way to go about this may be to move your router, or connect a network cable to the TV, if you can.
A basic network extender can cost you as little as $20
If that won’t work for you, a basic network extender can cost you as little as $20, while one of those systems with multiple units that we mentioned before can cost you many hundreds or even thousands. Mark has mentioned the “eero” system before, that one is reportedly very good, but you’re looking at around $400.
If your TV is already close to your WiFi router, or is connected to your network via a cable, it’s also possible that your Internet service provider is having issues. The little spinning wheel is the classic symbol for “buffering,” and it’s your TV’s way of saying “Hey, I’d display some video here except that I’m OUT OF DATA!” Subtle, isn’t it?
How fast is your Internet connection. The faster, the better.