Today, the digital users are spoiled for choice when it comes to video quality. They have better mobile devices and seamless internet connection. This means, they expect nothing but high-definition content. 

If you are keen on getting started with live streaming, it is crucial you are aware of the several streaming protocols. These include RTMP, HLS, MPEG-DASH, and WebRTC. Each of these play a key role in enhancing the quality and reliability of your live streams.

However, understanding these protocols is sometimes tricky, particularly for newcomers to the field. Each protocol, however, differs by compatibility, latency, and security, which makes it complex.

This article explains the protocol and reveals the six most common video web streaming protocols. Plus, it guides you in choosing a suitable technology for your needs.

What is a Protocol?

The live stream protocol sets guidelines for data communication channels across various systems. Rules are placed in layers to make a protocol structure, where each layer takes care of the functions and is built on the complexity of the layer underneath.

For instance, the network layer operates by internet protocol (IP), which handles device communication on the internet. It is usually tied to the Transport Control Protocol at the transport layer and Hypertext Transfer Protocol at the application layer.

The seven layers OSI model. This was formed for standardization by the International Organization, including –

• Session
• Presentation
• Data link
• Network
• Physical
• Application layers
• Transport

What is a Streaming Protocol?

Video protocols set the rules for video data delivery over a network. It maintains efficiency and reliability while giving no cause for degrading quality. These protocols enable video playback to regulate itself automatically based on the available bandwidth, thus ensuring unmatched operational efficiency.

They help to provide quality video services and low-latency live broadcasts, respectively. This application dramatically improves the video streaming quality.

The Basics of Streaming Protocols

A streaming or broadcast format is a standard way of providing media, such as video and audio, over the internet.

The role of the transport protocol layer is to transfer the data packets from one device to another and how these data packets are reassembled into playable media on the receiving end.

The core point is that both the sending and receiving gadgets should be built on the same live stream protocol to enable the connection to work.

For example, if you load a video using MPEG-DASH but the player on the target device does not support DASH protocol, the video will not play. This is why standardized protocols are an essential component.

Live Streaming Protocol vs. Codec

Codec is a familiar term in live streaming. It might seem similar to a video protocol, but they are different.

The codec is one of the other names such as coder or decoder. It is a tool for compressing the length of video files. The RAW video image comprises many displayed pictures, one quickly following the other.

The RAW video generally has 30 images per second. Think of 30 photos, which are 2 megapixels each. It needs a notable portion of space to be stored. This is where a codec steps in.

To save space, compression is used. This means using mathematical procedures to omit unnecessary data. For example, in a video where a section remains black for some time, rather than storing each entire pixel’s data, compression discards it and displays a reference to that part.

The video reaches its final destination, it is usually decompressed to play. In live streaming, this occurs in real time. Thus, a video codec is a tool that allows you to watch video clips in the best quality.

Streaming Protocols vs. Video Streaming Formats 

The video streaming format can also create difficulties. It is similar to packages for videos. This package includes compressed videos, compressed audio, and other details such as subtitles and descriptions.

It is delivered via streaming. The transport format states how the data is arranged with respect to every information as it flows through. The two most popular streaming video containers used are MPEG-TS and MP4.

Types of Common Streaming Protocols 

Professional broadcasters need to be familiar with the six types of streaming protocols. Let’s review the essentials of the most appreciated ones.

1. HTTP Live Streaming (HLS)

HLS stands for HTTP Live Streaming. It is the standard method for viewing and broadcasting video content online. Introduced a few years ago by Apple to substitute Flash on iPhones, HLS later became widely adopted.

It’s compatible with almost every device, including PCs, smart TVs, smartphones, and tablets. It comes in handy for you to reach a mass audience.

HLS relies on ABR. This will guarantee seamless playback by maintaining the video quality in line with the viewer’s browsing speed. On the downside, HLS produces a delay. This resulted in a delay in the appearance on the viewers’ screens.

2. Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP)

RTMP, created by Adobe, is an older method for sending audio and video between a server and Adobe Flash Player. But as Flash becomes outdated, RTMP’s main role has changed.

Now, it’s mainly used for taking live video streams from encoders. These streams are sent to the streaming platform using RTMP before being delivered to viewers using the more modern HLS protocol.

One of the well-known platforms in this arena is OnTheFly. Through its RTMP-supported websites, players and third-party app, you can easily take your streams to various viewers. You can easily stream your videos across major platforms including YouTube, Instagram, Twitter and so on!

3. Secure Reliable Transport (SRT)

The SRT protocol, created by Haivision, is a widely respected open-source standard in real-time streaming protocol technology. It’s praised for its strong security, dependable performance, wide compatibility, and quick streaming with minimal delays. 

Many tech leaders prefer it and the SRT Alliance supports it. One key advantage is its flexibility; it can work with various audio and video codecs, giving developers more options.

4. Microsoft Smooth Streaming (MSS)

Like Apple and MPEG, Microsoft created a live video stream software in 2008. They recognized how crucial Adaptive Bitrate (ABR) streaming is for providing users with top-quality video content.

This technology operates on HTTP and relies on adaptive bitrate streaming. The MSS video streaming protocol was designed for applications using the Silverlight player. This ensures seamless content delivery to a range of Microsoft devices.

Today, this protocol has expanded its reach beyond Windows devices. It now supports content delivery to various platforms, including:

• Xbox
• Apple/iOS devices
• TVs/Set-top boxes

5. Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (MPEG-DASH)

MPEG-DASH was created by the Moving Pictures Expert Group (MPEG) as another option for the HLS standard. It’s an open-source rule. This means it can be adjusted to suit any audio or video format.

Like HLS, MPEG-DASH can adapt the clip’s quality to the viewer’s broadband speed. This guarantees they get the most amazing service possible.

6. WebRTC

WebRTC is a free project that helps send videos to people quickly. It was first made for chatting and phone calls over the internet. Now, more apps have been used for video chats and meetings since Google bought it.

This technique transmits videos quickly using a direct viewer connection instead of a centralized server. WebRTC is used by popular applications, including Facebook Messenger, Google Meet, Houseparty, WhatsApp, and Discord, for its video functionality.

Final thoughts on Streaming Protocols

Streaming protocols play an indispensable role in delivering videos and music online. They ensure your audience can watch or listen to your content smoothly, no matter their device. 

If you wish to expand your reach through live streaming, you must know how these multimedia streaming protocols work. Such technical expertise allows you to improve your streaming game. Thus, making it easier for your users to have a great time watching or listening to what you offer.