How long should it take to download a programme?
The main factors that can have an effect on download speeds include:
- Speed of your line - broadband is generally available at speeds between 512Kbps and 8Mbps, which in turn will affect your maximum possible download speed. Test your speed at the BBC iPlayer Diagnostics page.
- Local network performance - wi-fi hotspots, shared connections and whether you are using the line for other downloads.
- ISP network performance, which may mean that the line is congested with other download traffic in your network neighbourhood.
- ISP throttling during peak times (which can be 4pm to midnight) and/or peer-to-peer limitations which may slow or even block access to the download service. Please check with your ISP for further details on throttling.
- Throttling by your ISP when download or upload limits have been reached, such as when you have hit your monthly quota.
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