RTMP Out Explained: How Live Streaming Really Works

Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) is a specialized communication protocol designed for low-latency transmission of live video data over the internet. RTMP Output is the process of transmitting a live video stream from an encoder to a streaming platform or media server using RTMP. The process involves setting up and configuring the stream, establishing a connection between the encoder and the streaming platform's RTMP server, sending the stream through data chunking and packaging, receiving and processing the stream by the server, distributing the stream to viewers, and monitoring and managing the stream. Benefits of using RTMP Out include low latency, reliability, compatibility, and security. Alternatives to RTMP Out are emerging, such as HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and RIST (Reliable Internet Streaming Transport), offering additional functionalities like adaptive bitrate streams and even lower latency.