Rent or buy your favorite programs on DVD. Most computers and laptops have DVD drives that allow you to watch your favorite programs without using your television. Nearly all televisions shows now have previous seasons, and entire series collections of past and current programs, that are available for rent on DVD and are watchable from your computer. Go to video stores, rent from independent kiosks in grocery or retail locations, or sign-up for online DVD rentals to have them delivered straight to your mail box. If you choose this route you will be able to enjoy all your shows with no commercial interruptions, and if you've decided to purchase your favorite programs, you can pass it on and share it with your children.
Video on demand (VOD). You can log onto websites that distribute online videos, including television shows, and view them there, for as long as they are available. Some VOD websites are free, and others charge for access to their content. Go to the websites of major networks and watch their current and past episodes in their entirety. Some online rental companies offer you the option of downloading your favorite programs so that you can immediately watch them from your computer or laptop.
Watch cable or satellite TV on your computer. Most computers manufactured over the last few years are equipped with a USB port, which enables you to watch television on your computer screen as it is being broadcast by your provider. Obtain a USB-based video capture device that fits your cable or satellite TV connection (usually one with a coax input), install the driver software, and you will be able to watch your favorite shows.