Distribution
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Streaming media servers are defined in the Streaming vs Progressive Download section.
Server software that can perform the task include:
(3) Quicktime Streaming Server
(4) SHOUTcast
(see Webcasting Formats)
Some considerations in deciding on the distribution method include:
- Which platform(s) will you use to stream the content?
Will you use only one, or multiple?
- Do you want people to be able to save a copy of their content to their hard drive?
If the answer is no, streaming media hosting is essential.
- Will you outsource the hosting or will you do it with in house expertise?
Hosting in-house allows for greater control but can be more expensive for smaller projects. It also requires bandwidth and traffic projections. It can however be cheaper for larger projects.
Paying a hosting company is another option. Files are uploaded to the host using FTP, or another similar technology. Clients are pointed to the hosting company via the content providers website.
- What is your budget?
- What Connectivity and access to bandwidth will your hosting solution provide? How will you have to compete for access with?
Hosting a streaming media server inside a busy in-house network can cause conflicts in sharing bandwidth with competing applications.