Streaming

Streaming is a method of delivering multimedia content over a network in a continuous stream, allowing playback to begin before the entire file has downloaded. It relies on buffering to compensate for network variability and supports both live events and on-demand content.

Delivery typically uses HTTP-based streaming protocols such as HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and MPEG-DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP), which enable adaptive bitrate streaming. Encoders convert media into data chunks at multiple quality levels; content is delivered via content delivery networks and stored in origin servers.

Types include live streaming, which broadcasts in real time, and on-demand streaming, which allows playback after capture. Content can be audio, video, or both, and commonly uses codecs like AAC for audio and H.264/AVC or H.265/HEVC for video.

Clients range from desktop web browsers to mobile apps and smart TVs. Popular platforms include consumer services (YouTube Live, Twitch, Facebook Live) and enterprise solutions. Streaming software, such as encoders and servers, manages ingest, transcoding, and distribution.

Economic models include subscriptions, advertising, and pay-per-view. Licensing and digital rights management (DRM) are important for protected content, while open formats and interoperability influence platform compatibility.

Challenges include latency, bandwidth costs, and quality of service, as well as copyright enforcement and accessibility. Trends include lower-latency streaming, cloud-based production, and wider adoption across devices.