Streaming technology is becoming more and more important to how we use the internet, amuse ourselves, and even interact with one another at work and at play. This page is for you if you were confused about how virtual events and video calls worked under stay-at-home orders (or are just seeking for a refresher on the basics of streaming technology)! We’re going to lay out everything you need to know about streaming and streaming technology, look at how quickly it’s changed recently, and analyse some notable tools, pieces of technology, and use cases.
Streaming technology Explained
The hardware and software that enable live or on-demand streaming of videos and audio via the internet are collectively referred to as “streaming technology.”
Real-time video, audio, and data transmission is referred to as streaming. This can offer a live broadcast (like a virtual event or video call) or on-demand video, as we’ll discuss in more depth below (like a movie streaming service). Even though streaming is still a technology that is developing and being improved, it has substantially increased in power and capabilities since it was first developed a few decades ago.
Explaining the Process of Streaming
Video streaming is made possible by streaming technology, which allows data to be sent by a server application, received by clients, and played back without needing to be kept on a user’s device indefinitely. When sufficient data has been sent, the receiving applications can start playing video and/or audio. And in the majority of modern streaming, this happens at a speed that is nearly immediate and qualifies as live communication.
We won’t go into a detailed technical explanation of how streaming technology functions or its development over the past few decades; instead, we’ll keep things “layman’s terms” and outline some key concepts for comprehending streaming.
Important Distinctions Between Streaming and Other Video Viewing
The foundation of streaming technology is digital media. Streaming is solely a process of microchips, internet connections, and data packets, unlike earlier video technologies that relied on things like signals and radio waves where “media” might refer to tangible components like film or analogue tape. Although WiFi technically uses radio, let’s avoid getting too philosophical.
In contrast to past forms of video (or “motion pictures,” if you will), which required storage on film, video, disc, drive, or solid-state, streaming is a digital format that doesn’t require storage space from the user. It goes without saying that the data needs to be housed somewhere in order to be played, but the viewer is not required to store any data or physical media.
Additionally, when you stream, you watch the content while the data is being transmitted. As you observe, the data is being buffered; after you are finished and the window is closed, the data disappears into thin air. This is another reason why it’s a popular format for entertainment services; users don’t have a storage space problem, and if you want to watch it again later, you’ll want to continue paying for the service.
Streaming Technology Platforms & Software
The following streaming technologies are also necessary to offer high-quality video. Remember that they will be included in the overall package:
Hosting Platforms: As we discussed previously, this is the device that integrates and simplifies all of your streaming technology. Even novice broadcasters can produce high-caliber, polished video streams with the aid of a reputable online video platform! Regardless of the platform you choose, make sure it can deliver uninterrupted, clear streaming to a range of devices.
Audio Video Capture Devices : Cameras, microphones, and capture cards for on-screen content are examples of audio-video capture devices. To record content for streaming, you need devices, even if I’m stating the obvious. These can include professional event streaming camcorders and equipment designed for amateur broadcasters.
Encoding Hardware and Software: We’ve previously covered in-depth encoding, which is a vital step in the streaming process. In order for RAW footage from a camera or other capture device to be transmitted over the internet, it must first be converted to digital format. You can accomplish that using encoders, whether they are software-based or hardware-based. Fortunately, we also provide a streaming encoders guide right here.
