This is how livestreaming works: explained in technically simple terms

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For a successful event and a positive event ROI (return on investment), you should find out about the technical features of a livestream. We have summarized the most important technical functions, the basic setup and the advantages and disadvantages of live streaming for you.

How does live streaming work?

The basic setup for a successful livestream includes a video recording device (camera with microphone), an encoder and a server that displays the video image on a website. Viewers can then watch this.

The recorded content from the video recording device is sent as a signal to the encoder, which in turn transmits the image and sound recordings to the streaming platform.

In a larger setup with several microphones and cameras, the picture control room with a picture mixer is also located between the video recording device and the encoder. This cuts a program image from the various incoming contents, which is then also sent to the encoder.

The Video encoder can be either a software or a hardware encoder.

A software encoder is a software solution on the PC. This is operating system-dependent. The advantage of a software encoder is the simple installation as well as free and freely accessible encoder programs to download. One example of this is OBS. In contrast to hardware encoders, however, software encoders are not as optimized for specific applications.

A hardware encoder is a physical device that is connected to the camera and the server by cable. In most cases, this device is built precisely for the desired functionality of the live stream transmission. In addition, the physical device is often more reliable than a corresponding software solution. This is not only dependent on the operating system, but must also rely on a stable internet connection at this point of contact.

The encoder delivers the output signals to the end point on the video platform . A stable internet connection is essential for the seamless and smooth transmission of the live stream. These output signals use so-called protocols to transmit the data packets. RTMP, RTMPS or SRT are examples of such protocols.

The video platform then displays the transmitted content on the website with a short delay (latency, approx. 15 - 20 seconds).

For smooth live streaming in high quality, a transmission rate of 2 Mbit/s is recommended. HD or 4K videos even require 5 Mbit per second.

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How does live streaming differ from television?

The principle of live streaming and one-to-many communication is similar to television. Here too, viewers can watch the content live on TV. The signal is transmitted either via satellite or cable.

The big difference between livestream and television, however, is the livestream's possession of additional functions. A livestream has feedback channels for communication and interaction between viewers. Viewers can communicate with each other via the chat function, while the Q&A function, for example, allows participants in a livestream to interact with the presenters and ask questions.

In contrast, there is no interaction between the two end points of broadcaster and viewer in television. The same applies to radio as another broadcast option.

How does live streaming differ from on-demand video?

Like livestreams, on-demand videos can also be accessed by viewers via the internet. Webinars, webcasts or livestreams can be uploaded to the media library after the event.

The big difference to live streaming, however, is that the on-demand videos are not live, but are stored on the server. This means that on-demand videos can be accessed at any time. These videos (including films and series) are usually stored in a media library. The best known of the numerous video-on-demand providers (VOD providers for short) are YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Secure video hosting is a decisive criterion for companies when choosing the right platform.

On-demand videos can also be downloaded. Playback is then no longer dependent on a stable internet connection, but can also take place offline. This guarantees that the video runs smoothly, as no buffer memory needs to be loaded. On the other hand, the large amount of storage space required is a disadvantage.

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How does a livestream differ from a webcam?

The functionality of a webcam is based on a different technology. This is similar to the principle of conferencing.

There is no delay between the live image and the image that reaches the viewers. As already mentioned, there is a time delay of approx. 15-20 seconds with live streams. One example of webcam technology is WebRTC.

What are the advantages of live streaming?

The popularity and the numerous offers make it undeniable that live streams have numerous advantages. Content can be played back immediately. Server transmission means that no content needs to be downloaded, which means that no valuable storage space is lost. More and more livestreams are also being broadcast via social media platforms, which further increases the reach of the content enormously.

In addition, viewer data can also be analyzed for live streaming events. This allows conclusions to be drawn about data transmission and interactions to be analyzed.

Livestreaming has gained enormously in importance and scale, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Live video streaming now allows any number of people to be involved regardless of their location. In addition to virtual events, live streaming has also become an integral part of hybrid events. You can simplify the organization of an online event with a virtual event platform .

Reading tip:

"How professional live streaming works"

What are the disadvantages of live streaming?

The basic requirement for a successful live stream is a constantly stable internet connection. For a successful streaming experience, this must be a prerequisite for every viewer. Interruptions or intermittent loading of the live stream reduce the success of the event.

In addition to fast internet, additional technical equipment, such as software and hardware, cameras, image mixers, etc., must also be purchased in order to broadcast the desired content. The search for a suitable live streaming platform or streaming provider can also be a challenge.

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How do you find the right streaming platform?

It can often be difficult to find the right streaming platform. The following questions can make the search easier:

• What content should be sent to viewers?
• What types of interactions should be used during the livestream?
• How should viewers be able to communicate?
• Should the livestream be made available for further use afterwards?
• Should the livestream be part of an online or hybrid event?
• Should the platform interface be designed in your branding?
• In which languages should the livestream be translated?

Are you still looking for a suitable event platform for your livestream? STREAMBOXY offers you numerous options for broadcasting the livestream and designing your individual event. Take a look and organize your future events with us.

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These blog articles may also interest you:

How to Start - Your first event with us

Common IT problems and solutions for online events

The event platform for the highest security requirements

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