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What is this? Cutting the cord limits access to live TV – though local broadcast stations are available with a digital antenna. There are alternative sports and news networks that can be streamed over the Internet, including 24-hour SkyNews. But most live TV is unavailable, including premium channels offered exclusively through cable providers (HBO, Showtime, etc.). What else should I know? Digital antennas can be a great way to get broadcast stations – even in HD. But before you buy one, check which channels are available near you. If you're already set up for cable, you may not even need the antenna. Plug the coaxial cable directly into your TV to see what channels you can watch for free. Also see: How I Did the Impossible: HBO Without Cable TV

What is this? Tell us how much you pay for cable now. To cut the cord, you’ll still have to pay for Internet, so only include the TV portion of of your bill. What else should I know? We may save you money with cable, but you'll probably need to upgrade your Internet depending on how many devices could be streaming at once. Streaming websites recommend 1.5 Megabits per second for standard definition video and 3-5 Mbps for high definition. Also see: Why cable TV bills are only going up

= Hulu = Netflix = Amazon Prime What is this? Search to see if your shows are available on Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Instant Video. Your search may not return results if the show isn't available on any of the three streaming services or if the spelling doesn't match the actual name of the show. If you find a show that you believe is listed incorrectly or should be included, e-mail cordcutter@marketwatch.com. What else should I know? You may want to investigate for yourself to see which seasons are available on each service. The search only checks if at least one episode is available on each service. Hulu typically has recent episodes whereas Netflix and Amazon typically feature past seasons. Also, some shows are available for free on Hulu without a HuluPlus subscription. Also see: Netflix won't take over the world at $7.99 per month

What is this? These were the only apps we could find dedicated to streaming an entire sports league without a cable subscription. Streaming of other sports, both professional and college level, may still be available for certain leagues, teams or events. All of the league packages feature live games except for the NFL. Many, however, have blackouts for games broadcast on your local stations and the postseason. NFL Game Rewind offers full-game replays after they have aired. What else should I know? A digital antenna can compensate for local blackouts as well as important games and events. The subscription services are all available via a browser (e.g., on a computer, tablet or smartphone) and also include bonus video and access to stats and live analysis. Many of the packages have tiered plans depending on how much access you want. Also see: I tried to cut the cable cord — and failed

What is this? Most TVs can't be connected to the Internet without additional hardware, such as a Roku, Apple TV, or certain Blu-ray players. Or you can skip the TV entirely and stream programs via a computer, tablet or smartphone.

What is this? Some of your TVs may already be able to stream Internet content. New Smart TVs come equipped with Internet capability (you may need to connect it with an Ethernet cable or a wireless adapter). Or you may already be connected to a Roku, Apple TV, certain Blu-ray players or a game consoles, such as Xbox 360 and Playstation 3, that are ready to stream. What else should I know? These devices may not be able to stream all the channels you want. You can check your device for more information.