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Rock on with the 40th MTV VMAs: How and where to stream the awards

Lisa Iscrupe,Hannah WhatleyAllconnect

Published 10:03 am ET Aug 29

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milorad kravic, Getty Images

The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) is reaching its fourth decade running this year. Artists, performances and pop culture have changed drastically since the first MTV VMAs in 1984, as well as the way we watch the awards. Instead of rushing to our couch to catch the live show, we can now watch with a variety of streaming options. 

This year, popular artists such as Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter and Katy Perry will perform between awards presented by host Megan Thee Stallion and other artists.

Prepare for the 40th annual MTV VMAs, airing live from New York on September 11th, 2024, by finding out:

• Where to stream the MTV VMAs live
• The internet speed you need to stream the VMAs
• How to get the best VMA streaming experience
• Cheap internet options to watch the MTV VMAs
• Ways to secure your connection while streaming the VMAs

Which streaming platforms air the MTV VMAs?

The 2024 MTV VMAs are available through any TV provider package that includes the cable channel. If you don’t have a cable or a satellite TV provider, then you can watch the 40th VMAs by streaming.

The following table provides the streaming options for the 2024 MTV VMAs, along with the minimum package that includes the MTV channel, pricing and free trial details. If you want to stream the 2024 MTV VMAs for free, try signing up for a free trial with one of these streaming services — but be sure to cancel before the trial ends.

What internet speed do you need to stream the MTV VMAs?

To stream the MTV VMAs, all you need is an internet provider, a device such as a tablet, laptop or TV, and access to one of the streaming platforms that carries MTV. 

The following table shows the minimum speeds required (based on one connected device) and the number of simultaneous streams allowed with each streaming option.

Keep in mind that the internet speed you need may be higher than the minimum based on other factors within your home. For instance, 

• If you’re streaming on a smart TV, you’ll need a higher speed than streaming on a phone. 
• High-definition (HD) streaming requires faster speeds than standard definition (SD). 
• If other devices are connected to your Wi-Fi network while streaming, you’ll need a faster speed to avoid buffering or lag. 

Fine-tune your home Wi-Fi for the best streaming experience

If laggy and buffering video strikes a chord with you, it might be time to do some proactive quality control before the awards air live. Use this checklist list to ensure a smooth streaming experience.

• Test your internet speed to ensure you have enough bandwidth to stream the VMAs. 
• Put your Wi-Fi router in the best location for an optimal internet signal.
• Resolve Wi-Fi issues ahead of time.

If you’re still experiencing internet trouble after following these steps, here are some other factors to consider.

• Your modem and router could be outdated. It may be time to upgrade your Wi-Fi router.
• The type of internet connection you currently have might not be suitable for everything you use the internet for. For instance, homes with multiple connected devices used for streaming or gaming will function better with a fiber internet or cable internet connection vs. a 5G or satellite internet service. 
• Your internet speed isn’t fast enough for your online needs. By switching internet providers, you may be able to choose a new plan with faster speeds for as much or even less than you’re paying now.

Low-cost internet options for streaming the MTV VMAs

There are several easy ways to stream the VMAs without pricey home internet service. Cheap internet plans can get you connected to the internet without breaking your budget.

Another option to consider is bundling an internet service with your existing cell phone plan. Internet and mobile bundles can save you a significant amount on monthly internet costs.

Low-cost or free internet is also available in many areas for qualifying households. Finally, if you want to watch the VMAs without signing up for a new internet service, try using a free Wi-Fi hotspot near you. 

Internet security while streaming the VMAs

Play it safe while streaming the 40th annual MTV VMAs by taking precautions to secure your online data. 

• Don’t allow unauthorized access to your home Wi-Fi network. Set up a guest Wi-Fi network to prevent visitors from accidentally or purposefully accessing your home devices or shared personal data. A guest network can typically be set up through your internet provider’s app. 
• Be sure to use a virtual private network (VPN) to guard your data from others on the network if you are streaming the award show in a shared space using public W-Fi.
• Follow anti-phishing best practices, such as using a spam filter on your email accounts, ensuring your security settings on your computer, tablet, or phone are up to date, and not clicking on links or responding to emails requesting your personal information from addresses you don’t recognize.

VMA winners

The MTV VMAs started out as a way to award the most groundbreaking music videos. Now, the highlight of the show is the unique artist mashups and creative performances you can’t find anywhere else. Stay tuned in with reliable internet to make sure you don’t miss the VMA winners or any part of the 40th anniversary of the MTV VMAs. 

Lisa IscrupeAllconnect.com

Lisa Iscrupe is a senior writer helping readers understand the complexities of broadband, internet and other home services, including energy and renewable products. Her work appears on SaveOnEnergy.com and CNET.com, with national sources such as CNN, The Daily MBA and The Media Bulletin referencing her articles.

Hannah WhatleyAllconnect.com

Hannah Whatley is an editor who enjoys collaborating with writers to offer readers the most relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information for their home purchases. She has previously edited for The Motley Fool, The Modest Wallet, Grammarly, JoinCake.com and SaveOnEnergy.com, gaining expertise in several industries. Hannah has a B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. When she isn’t editing, she enjoys studying linguistics and languages.