Buffering

• When video is streamed to your computer via media software such as Windows Media Player, the software attempts to download the video faster than it plays. The extra video is called a "buffer." If the video stream stalls for any reason, the extra buffered video is shown. Usually, the buffered video lasts long enough for the video stream to continue normally.
  
  

Internet Connection Problems Can Cause Buffering Problems

• A slow Internet connection can lead to buffering issues. In order for media software to create a buffer, it must be able to download the video faster than it is playing. A slow Internet connection may not be capable of this requirement.
  
  

Background Downloads Can Cause Buffering Problems

• Background downloads can prevent a buffer from being created because they cause a drain on bandwidth. The more bandwidth that's available, the easier Windows Media Player can create a video buffer.
  
  

Server Side Issues Can Cause Buffering Problems

• Sometimes, buffering problems are not the fault of the Windows Media Player software. For example, the server streaming the video may be experience a high number of visitors attempting to view the video. In this case, the external server has no bandwidth to allow Windows Media Player to download fast enough to create a buffer.
  
  

Manually Creating a Buffer

• Pressing the pause button on Windows Media Player will stop the video from playing and force Windows Media Player to create a buffer.