I was responding to another person who was running into bit rate issues with their streams and didn't understand what was causing the root of the problem. I replied back with a lot of stuff that normally can be overlooked. So below is a modified version of my reply to help others with possible bit rate issues in solving streaming problems, quality issues, and bitrate.
Bit Rate issues can be a very tricky thing to resolve. First you need to look at your bitrate and what you are trying to output to stream. For example, if you are trying to output a 1080p at 60 fps with a 2k bitrate you are going to run into issues right away. It is best to use the correct settings for the quality you are wanting on stream using the numbers from https://stream.twitch.tv/encoding/. If your bitrate is lower then the recommended setting issues will occur as you are trying to output more data then you are letting your computer be able to push out.
Another issue could be others using their own computers on the same internet connection at the same time. As they use their computers to access the internet it may throttle your computer's bandwidth and slow down the ability to send your stream's data. This type of issue can point to your bandwidth from your ISP as well as your router/modem and how well it can handle high bandwidth requests.
You should also know your upload speeds. The upload speed is your connection to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and how much data they are willing to handle from your line. There is also an upload speed for your computer's connection to the modem (Ethernet/wireless, separate router or combo, any hardware and soft limitations on any devices). Each device from your computer to your ISP has it's own max upload speeds which need to be considered. If you are using Ethernet and all devices are made in the last 5 years, you probably dont need to worry about the speeds as most will be able to handle a bitrate well over 6000 kbps. That said if there are any software settings that specifically cap the speeds then, it may be limiting you from exceeding. Usually this is done by someone who understands networks and default settings on most devices do not have a cap.
Lastly, if you can confirm your hardware can handle your bandwidth from your computer with a stable rate, then the last possible option would be general network jitters. This happens when others are using your bandwidth. This mostly happens if a family member or roommate are also online or in worst case that so many people are using the internet in your area that your ISP cannot handle it. It is rare that your ISP cannot handle it but it does happen.
Quick Steps Check list to solve bit rate issues:
Confirm you have the correct bitrate for your output - https://stream.twitch.tv/encoding/
Confirm your ISP can handle your bitrate upload speed
Confirm your hardware can handle your bitrate (wired connection, computer, router modem)
Identify when the issue occurs. If they are at the same time when others are using the internet connection you are on, then your router/modem or ISP may need to be upgraded.
See what other things are running on your computer at the same time. If your computer is running something that needs the internet at the same time as your stream, it may be taking up the bandwidth from your computer.
Good Luck!
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