Overview

A stable internet connection is the essence of the seamless operation of DISPL Digital Signage and Audience Analytics. While DISPL solutions are designed to function during short-term outages, prolonged disconnections can impact data accuracy and content updates.

DISPL has tools in place to protect data from being lost in the event of a communication channel failure. The player is guaranteed to continue functioning autonomously, displaying content and collecting data.

All data (telemetry, playback statistics, audience analytics) will be transmitted once the connection is restored.

However, the connection must not remain disconnected indefinitely.

This article explains how DISPL handles internet disruptions and what you need to consider to ensure uninterrupted service and accurate analytics.

Internet Connection for Digital Signage

DISPL digital signage players are designed to continue operating even if the internet connection is lost. When offline, the system will:
- Continue playing the scheduled content according to the media plan already uploaded to the device. However, any new content assigned after the internet is disconnected will not start playing.

- Store playback statistics locally until the connection is restored.

- Resume syncing with the server once the network is back. 

When is an Internet Connection Required?

A stable internet connection is necessary for:
❌ Real-time content updates – New content or schedule changes won’t sync without the internet.
❌ Remote management – The ability to control screens from the DISPL CMS will be limited.
❌ Programmatic ads (DISPL Ads)

Internet Connection for Audience Analytics

DISPL sensors continue collecting data if the connection is temporarily lost. This data is stored locally and sent to the server once the connection is restored. 

What Happens If There Is No Internet for an Extended Period?

⚠ If the connection is lost for longer than the storage period of face descriptors on the device, some data may not be properly assigned to audience sessions and will not appear in the graphs.

⚠ If the connection is lost for more than 24 hours, visitor data may not pass the server check and will be discarded.

How to Ensure Reliable Audience Analytics?

• Avoid long-term Internet outages to prevent data loss.
• Monitor your connection and restore it as quickly as possible.
• Use backup network options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or LTE backup) to prevent downtime.

Best Practices for Ensuring a Reliable Connection

• Use a stable primary Internet connection (wired or wireless).
• Implement a backup connection, such as cellular failover or secondary ISP.
• Regularly monitor network uptime to identify connectivity issues before they cause disruptions.

Conclusion

DISPL solutions are designed to work even in offline mode, ensuring that your digital signage continues playing content and audience data is stored. However, a stable and consistent internet connection is required for real-time updates and accurate analytics.

For best performance, maintain a reliable network, minimize prolonged disconnections, and use backup connectivity options to prevent disruptions.

For further assistance, contact DISPL Support at support@displ.com.