In recent months, some users have reported intermittent throttling or blocking of internet speeds by their Internet Service Providers (ISPs). This can cause streaming disruptions on both Live TV and On-Demand (VOD) content. If you’re experiencing buffering, black screens, or unresponsive streams, ISP throttling may be the culprit.

Internet throttling occurs when your ISP intentionally limits your bandwidth, especially during high-demand periods. While providers rarely admit this practice, it’s common to see speeds slow down during peak streaming hours or when the network detects continuous data usage.

A properly configured VPN can often mitigate throttling by encrypting your data—preventing the ISP from seeing exactly what you’re streaming and thus reducing the likelihood of speed caps.

The Apollo Group TV application (and similar apps like Startup Show) offers a built-in Speed Test to help identify possible throttling.

1. Open the App: Launch Apollo Group TV (or the appropriate streaming app).
2. Go to Settings: Look for the “Launch Speed Test” option.
3. Choose a DETAILED Test: This will test your connection to the Live TV Server and VOD Server separately.

Download Speeds will show – > ensure Live TV and VOD Server Download Speeds are at least (20 Mbit/s) re below. 

• 0 Mbps or <5 Mbps on Live TV or VOD indicates likely throttling.
• “Bad IP” messages also suggest blocking or severely restricted bandwidth.

Ideally, each server (Live TV and VOD) should report a stable Download Speed of at least 20 Mbps (we recommend 40-50 Mbps for the best experience).

• If speeds are healthy across all servers, you should see smooth playback.
• Sometimes, the speed test may show no data but the streams still function—if so, you’re likely okay.
• Conversely, you might see valid numbers but still have playback issues, which can sometimes be a higher-level network block.

• Ping:
  • Measures how long it takes for data to travel between your device and the server (in milliseconds).
  • Lower is better; under 100 ms is generally acceptable, under 50 ms is ideal.
• Jitter:
  • Measures the variation in latency.
  • Lower numbers indicate a more stable connection (under 30 ms is decent; under 10 ms is excellent).

Example of a Failed Test without VPN on: 

Using a VPN to Avoid Throttling

Many ISPs specifically target streaming traffic. A VPN encrypts that traffic, making it harder for the ISP to detect and limit your speeds. However, not all VPNs are compatible with every device or network.

Our Super Easy Recommended VPN

• Under 5 minutes to Subscribe and Setup.
• 30-day money-back guarantee—try it risk-free.
• Special 2-year plan at about $2.53/month plus tax (~$60 CAD total).
• Use on unlimited devices.
• We’ve tested City Specific Servers known to provide reliable streaming speeds as a back up, if any issues occur with the recommended, United States Connection.

Take Control of Your Streaming

Don’t let ISP throttling ruin your viewing experience. By running a detailed speed test and using a reliable VPN, you can ensure smooth streaming and protect your data.