Streaming Media

Streaming Media is a process in which an end user constantly receives and views media such as video, audio, or real-time text from a source via a constant server to client data stream. On-demand media streaming implies viewing pre-recorded material stored on a server. Users have the option of pausing, replaying and seeking through media files. Live streaming allows users access to a live webcast / broadcast. Users have the option of seeking, pausing or replaying the media only if the media is buffered and stored on a local machine.

Advantages

  • Eliminates the need for local data storage
  • Optimized for low speed networks through client-side media quality adjustments
  • Simple implementation in most web application

Disadvantages

  • Requires a connection to a media server
  • Dependent on the stability of the streaming server
  • Delays, pauses and breaks in playback from data loss for live transmissions depending on the system used

Components

  • FLV
  • AVI
  • MPEG
  • Quick Time
  • MP4
  • MKV
  • OGM
  • OGG
  • 3GP

Development tools

  • VLC media player
  • PeerCast
  • Unreal Media Server
  • Flash Media Server
  • Wowza Media Server
  • Darwin Streaming Server
  • Flumotion Streaming Server
  • Firefly
  • FreeCast
  • Helix Universal Server
  • Helix DNA Server
  • Windows Media Services
  • IIS Media Services
  • Icecast
  • SHOUTcast
  • Logitech Media Server

Versions

  • HTTP
  • MPEG DASH
  • RTSP
  • MMS
  • RTP
  • RTCP
  • UDP
  • TCP
  • RTMP
  • Real Data Transport
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