Digital radio – On the internet

• A computer with a sound card inside (most modern computers have one) and speakers or headphones plugged into it.
• Software (streaming audio software) such as RealPlayer or Windows Media Player (both free to download), depending on the stations you want to listen to.
• Ideally, a broadband internet connection, because radio needs quite a large amount of bandwidth, though it is possible to use a dial-up connection.

For problems with your computer, software or connection, please contact the retailer, manufacturer or internet service provider (ISP).

A wi-fi (wireless) radio allows you to listen to internet radio stations from all over the world without being tied to your computer and without even switching it on. To listen, you need a broadband connection for your computer and a wireless router, as well as the wi-fi radio itself. You can move the radio around, as long as it is within range.

With BBC iPlayer you can:

• Listen live to BBC radio programmes as they are broadcast
• Listen again to BBC radio programmes for up to seven days after broadcast

To use iPlayer, go to the iPlayer homepage or to any BBC radio station website.

For help with installing the iPlayer Download Manager, or any other queries about iPlayer, go to BBC iPlayer Help.