How To Guide For Streaming
Streaming Made Simple
Streaming lets you watch shows, movies, sports, news, and live TV through your internet connection instead of using traditional cable or satellite service.
Many customers now use a simple setup: internet service, a smart TV or streaming device, a local antenna for free channels, and one or two streaming apps. This can be a great way to lower monthly TV costs while still keeping the entertainment your household actually watches..
How Streaming Works
1. Get Connected
Streaming uses your internet connection to deliver TV shows, movies, live channels, and on-demand content. Netflix states that you need at least 3 Mbps for HD, 5 Mbps for Full HD, and 15 Mbps for 4K UHD
2. Choose a Device
You can stream with a smart TV, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV device, game system, tablet, phone, or computer.
3. Pick Your Apps
Popular apps include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount+, YouTube TV, Sling, and many others.
4. Start Watching
Once your device is connected to Wi-Fi and your apps are signed in, you can watch without a traditional cable or satellite box.
Popular Streaming Options
Free Streaming Apps
Good for movies, shows, older TV, and free live channels. Examples include Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Freevee, and YouTube.
Low-Cost Paid Apps
Good for families who want movies, shows, originals, kids content, or specific channels. Examples include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, Paramount+, and Prime Video.
Live TV Streaming
Best for people who still want a cable-like channel guide with live sports, news, and major cable channels. Examples include YouTube TV, Sling, Hulu + Live TV, and similar services.
What Does Streaming Cost?
Streaming costs depend on what apps you choose. Many customers can replace a large cable or satellite package by using Local antenna channels + 1 or 2 streaming apps
That setup can often be much cheaper than paying for a large monthly TV package.
As a general guide, many popular on-demand streaming apps start around $9–$20 per month, while full live-TV replacement which are not normally needed are usually much higher. YouTube TV, for example, lists its main plan at $82.99/month, while Sling promotes more flexible plans, free streaming options, and paid plans under about $51/month.
Recommended Streaming Setup
For many homes, the best setup is:
HallsNet Internet
For your streaming connection.
OTA Antenna
For free local channels, news, weather, sports, and major networks.
Streaming Device or Smart TV
For apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, Paramount+, YouTube TV, Sling, and more.
One or Two Paid Apps
Choose only what your household actually watches.
Need Help Getting Started?
Not sure what streaming device to buy? Need help connecting your TV to Wi-Fi? Want to cut down your TV bill but still keep your favorite shows?
HallsNet can help you get set up and explain your options in plain language.
Call 430-235-7003 to get help with streaming setup.