The other way is to watch channels that are offered as streams for free by using programs such as JLC’s Internet. While the first method is probably not that legal the second is perfectly legal but offers content that is not really mainstream. JLC’s Internet TV has a size of only 138K. Installation takes only a second and the channel list has to be updated from a central server at the first start.

It is quickly populated with more than 1400 channels ranging from regional channels such as Barcelona TV to sport channels such as Backyard Wrestling. Channels are divided into categories such as local, government or sports and all have information about ratings and bitrates while most also have a short description about the content that can be expected.

JLC’s Internet TV has only two requirements. The first one is that you do need the Windows Media Player and Real Player to be able to play all of the channels. Most channels require the Media Player which should be installed on your system to be able to watch them.

The second is a Internet connection that is capable of receiving the data from the servers. This is of course bitrate dependent, I would suggest you simply try it out and see for yourself if the playback is without problems.

I think that these channels offer a great opportunity for many users. This is great if you are interested in a specific topic or want to improve a language for instance. What’s a better way to improve it than to listen to a regional tv station ?