You can get Big Ten Network (BTN) a few different legal ways, depending on whether you want traditional TV, a live‑TV streaming app, or just extra Big Ten content like B1G+.

Main ways to get Big Ten Network

1. Through live TV streaming services (no cable box)

BTN is carried on several internet “cable replacement” services. Common options include:

  • YouTube TV (BTN is part of the regular channel lineup in most Big Ten areas).
  • DirecTV Stream and similar services that advertise BTN in their sports packages.
  • Other sports‑focused live TV apps that list BTN among their channels (often in mid‑ or upper‑tier plans).

How it generally works:

  1. Sign up on the service’s website and pick a plan that explicitly lists “Big Ten Network” in the channel list.
  1. Use the app on your smart TV, Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, phone, or browser to watch live BTN.
  2. Many of these services offer free trials, so you can test BTN access first.

2. Through a traditional cable or satellite package

BTN is still on many regular TV providers as part of a sports or “expanded basic” tier.

  • Check your local cable or satellite provider’s channel lineup page and search for “Big Ten Network” or “BTN.”
  • If it’s not in your current tier, you may have to upgrade to a sports or higher‑tier package.

You’ll then sign in to BTN/FOX apps with your provider login to stream on devices as well.

3. Through FOX’s streaming platform with BTN add‑on

BTN content is tightly tied to FOX, and FOX’s own subscription platform now lets you add BTN as an extra.

  • FOX’s streaming service (often branded around “FOX One” or similar) offers BTN as an add‑on for a monthly or annual fee.
  • Pricing examples listed publicly: BTN add‑on around a low double‑digit monthly price or a discounted annual rate; you can cancel anytime.
  • You create a FOX streaming account, pick a base subscription, then add BTN and watch via FOX apps on mobile and TV devices.

4. B1G+ / Big Ten Plus (extra Big Ten games)

If you’re searching “how to get Big Ten Network” because you don’t want to miss any Big Ten content, know that BTN and B1G+ (often written B1G+) are different.

  • BTN = TV channel with major games and studio shows.
  • B1G+ = separate subscription streaming service for overflow games and events that aren’t on the TV channel.

To get B1G+:

  1. Go to the B1G+ / Big Ten Plus website and register a new account.
  1. Pick a subscription (monthly or annual; sometimes school‑ or sport‑specific options).
  1. Pay online or via in‑app purchase on platforms like Apple or Google Play.
  1. Log into the app on your devices to watch extra games that complement what’s on BTN.

This is great if you already get BTN but want non‑televised matchups (for example, niche sports or lower‑profile games).

Mini FAQ and quick tips

Is there a way to watch BTN for free?

  • You can sometimes watch BTN legally for free during trial periods of live‑TV streaming services that carry BTN.
  • After the free trial (often 5–7 days), you’ll be billed the normal monthly fee unless you cancel.

Do I need both BTN and B1G+?

  • If you only care about the biggest football or basketball games, BTN via cable or a live‑TV app is often enough.
  • If you want nearly everything (more volleyball, wrestling, baseball, etc.), BTN + a B1G+ subscription gives the widest coverage.

Simple path if you just want to start watching

  1. Pick a live‑TV streaming service that clearly lists “Big Ten Network” in its channels.
  1. Sign up for a trial, confirm BTN works on your TV/phone.
  2. If you find some games missing, add B1G+ separately through its website for the overflow content.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.