do you need to cancel a directv satellite account before you open a direct tv stream account?

You need to set up a different account for Streaming than you use for satellite. Years ago when I transfered from satellite to stream, I set up the new account and got streaming up and running, then cancelled my satellite account. I think you could do the same today, just need a different account.

You should get one of their devices if you want a similar experience vs cable/satellite. The Gemini Air or box (also known as Osprey box) have remotes designed to work with the service-----with numbers for channel changing and shortcut buttons for dvr list, guide, record, previous channel. You can get a box from Walmart for 45 bucks ---comes with google play store for all your other apps as well.