Previously my Tidal Streaming service sometimes stopped playing for a few seconds and then started again. In addition, sometimes, my Internet connection completed stopped working while listening to a Tidal album. I re-booted my modem and router and everything worked but the Internetconnection continued to sometimes drop. It was driving me crazy.
I completely LOST my Internet connection on my MAC Computer. I re-booted everything (twice) and still no Internet connection. I called my Internet Service Provider (ISP) and they said the cable signal strength coming into my modem was incorrect (out of range) and scheduled a Maintenance Tech (Senior level, outside person) Service Call. This is not the ISP normal service call.
The ISP Maintenance Tech arrived on Sunday and adjusted the signal strength for all their switching components carrying the cable signal to my home. He then replaced the outside cable junction box (underground) for my neighborhood (3 homes including mine) since it was old and corroded. He then replaced all the coaxial connector plugs on the cable from my wall plug to my modem and also replaced all the coaxial connector plugs in my outside cable box. He noticed some of the wires were not straight so he rearranged the wires in my configuration both inside and outside. Some additional adjustments were required on the outside cable junction box (fine tuning to get the require signal strength). He was excellent and answered my questions on my configuration.
When all of the above was done, he tested both the outside cable junction box and the inside signal strength to ensure all cable signals were in the required range (they were). He then ran a speed test to confirm my upload and download speeds were correct (they were). He made some additional minor cable and tuning adjustments and now everything is working fine. He said if the cable signal strength is too high, or low, it will cause the Internetconnection to drop its signal. It has to be in its assigned required range.
If you are experiencing Internetconnection problems, the FIRST step to turn the power off your router, modem (take out the battery, if present) and remove the cable connection from the wall for 3 minutes. To re-start, plug the coaxial cable back into the wall FIRST and turn on the power for all your devices. This should solve most problems, but, if not, repeat these steps. You should also ensure the software in your router is current.
If you are still experiencing Internetconnectivity issues, you might need to call your ISP for assistance. If needed, you might ask the Customer Support person to check the cable signal strength coming into your modem to help troubleshoot the issue.
Previous to the above, I also had router issues. My Linksys router was dropping packets that greatly impacted the sound. I also had issues with 2 Apple routers since they could not handle the load. My current Luxul router is working fine.
As noted, streaming issues require a complete review of all components especially the router, switch box, if any, Internet signal being in the correct range, outside cable junction boxes, ISP amplifiers, wiring, etc. I hope this helps.
I am currently streaming Tidal and Qobuz and both services sound excellent.