This article explains the different types of video streaming and the options that are available to those wishing to implement it.
What is video streaming?
Video streaming is the process of sending a series of moving images over the internet in a compressed format. These images are then transferred to the user’s machine, where they are uncompressed and viewed by a media player, which can either be a standalone piece of software, or part of an internet browser.
The advantage of streaming video and other media over the web is that the user does not have to wait to download a large file before viewing or hearing it. The media is sent in a continuous ‘stream’, which is played as it arrives.
Pre-recorded vs. live video streaming
Video streaming can either be a pre-recorded video file or a live broadcast "feed." With pre-recorded content, the video is stored on a server and is then downloaded ‘on demand’ by the user when they require it. With live broadcasts, the video is converted into a compressed digital signal and then transmitted to the user from a special web server. This process of sending the same file to multiple users at the same time is known as ‘multicasting.’
Methods of video streaming
There are several ways of streaming video content over the internet. The method chosen will depend on the individual circumstances of the producer, their budget and their requirements.
The following are two of the most common methods of video streaming:
HTTP Streaming
This process of delivery involves downloading the file in its entirety before it is viewed. The file is usually saved in a temporary folder in the users computer and is then viewed in the chosen media player. The obvious disadvantage of this method is that the user has to wait for the whole of the file to download before they can view it. The advantage on the other hand, is that because it uses the same format as web pages are delivered in, it is relatively easy and cost-effective to implement. It does not require any special software or additional hosting plans.
True Streaming
True streaming, as it is known, involves a constant stream, meaning that users can begin to watch the file as soon as it has started to be sent. Apart from the obvious benefit that there is no delay, this method also allows for live video streaming or ‘webcasting’ in real time. Unlike HTTP streaming, this method requires the use of a specialised streaming server.
Video streaming formats
There are several formats which videos can be streamed in. These include:
- Windows Media
- Real Media
- Quicktime
- MPEG
- Adobe Flash
Each of these formats has pros and cons and a lot comes down to personal preference. When choosing which format to stream in, you should take into account these preferences and whether or not your audience will have the necessary software to view your files.
For example, if you are targeting Apple Mac users, then Quicktime would be a good choice, as this is the media player of choice for most users of this platform.
The most popular media player is windows media, which is pre-installed on windows, the world’s most common operating system. For this reason, streaming media in this format is a good choice if you have a very varied target audience, as chances are the majority of people will be able to access it.
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