Streaming media Defined
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Streaming media is a set of technologies used to distribute video and audio in real time over networks such as the Internet.
It is a one-to-many technology. This means, that a single video or video feed is sent out to multiple viewers.
The stages in preparation are:
- Creation - explanation
- Encoding - explanation
- Distribution - explanation
- Client Viewing - explanation
Each has a special technology which compliments the others.
Contents |
Content creation
First, you must create the content. This means using good quality cameras, microphones, editing and other equipment to produce your meeting, event or presentation. This can be the most important part of the process. Even before you click a mouse, you have determined the minimum quality of your final result. Remember: garbage in, garbage out!
More on Creation
Encoding
Once you have put together your content, it is time to trasfer it into something that the computer can work with. You use some software called an "encoder" to create a file that can be transfered over the Internet.
The encoding stage is discussed at greater length in the encoding section. The end result of the encoding process is an electronic version of your media content customised for playing (streaming) over the Internet.
More on Encoding
Distribution
Distribution is the next step. In a true streaming media set-up you would use a server such as
(3) Quicktime Streaming Server
(4) SHOUTcast
More on Distribution
Client player, the actual user accessing of the content
The playing and accessing of content brings up some important considerations. More about this in the client section.
Difference between a web server (progressive download) and a streaming media server
Microsoft has written an excellent distinction Streaming Methods: Web Server vs. Streaming Media Server that clearly explains the difference between the two technologies.
Streamingmedia.com have written a useful paper on Streaming vs. Downloading Video: Understanding The Differences.
The difference between web hosting of media files (sometimes called progressive download) and streaming is that the media begins playing at the same time as it is being downloaded from the server.
Because of how this works, it is even possible to have the media being created from a live source, and sent to the client computer watching and listening in real-time. This is known as 'live-streaming'
The benefit of using a streaming media server to deliver your media files is the quality of the experience the user has. The streaming media server (such as Windows Media Services, Real Network's 'Helix' server or quicktime) communicates with the client (users) player to work out the best way to send the media over the network.
What Streaming Media is Not
It is not teleconferencing as some people often confuse it as being. It is a "one to many" technology where a single feed or "stream" of audio and / or video is "encoded" and sent to a central server.
Another technology which people tend to confuse streaming media with in simple hosting of a media file (such as a video or audio) on a web server for download. (See above)