Decoding RTMP Ingest And Its Role In Live Video Streaming Services

Decoding RTMP Ingest And Its Role In Live Video Streaming Services

Live video streaming is an extremely valuable solution for businesses, schools, as well as other professional organizations. Many broadcasters make use of online video players that are stacked with certain tools that you can use to broadcast even with very little technical know-how. Even though such players are able to automate most of the live video streaming process, however, there are so many procedures that go on behind the scenes. Different systems and protocols work in tandem to bring broadcasts to life.

RTMP or Real-Time Messaging Protocol is one of the most widely used protocols that make cost-effective live streaming possible and simple. Over time, the role of this protocol has immensely evolved, however, today, it is essentially used for RTMP ingest enabling users to avail benefits of the many open-source or low-cost live encoders that are available in the market.

The existing trends signify that RTMP will be critical for live video streaming services and digital media service providers should indubitably incorporate it into their next online or hybrid event. At Oodles Technologies, we have in-depth knowledge and experience in providing immersive video delivery solutions using RTMP. From live video streaming app development to end-to-end live streaming services, we cater to diverse business requirements.

In this article, we will discuss what RTMP ingest is and why it is important for live video streaming solutions.


What is RTMP Ingest? 

RTMP Ingest is the updated role of the protocol. In order to know how this differs from the original role of the protocol, you should have a basic understanding of how video encoding works and makes live video streaming possible. 

For instance, during the live streaming process, the digital media content or video undergoes the following steps:

Video camera → Encoder → Online Video Platform → CDN Servers → Video Player

To explain simply, RTMP ingest means utilizing the technology first encode and then transfer the live video from the encoder directly to the selected online video platform. Moreover, RTMP ingest necessitates the use of an RTMP encoder, which is promptly available, and as compared to encoders used in other streaming protocols, it is relatively inexpensive.

We would also like to highlight that the streaming process is also feasible without an online video platform. The RTMP encoder has capabilities to ingest directly into the CDN servers or video player altogether. 

Also Read: OTT Video Streaming: The Increased Demand For Personalized Viewing
How Does RTMP Ingest Function?

RTMP ingest inculcates three broad functionalities: the handshake, the connection, as well as the stream.
 

1. The handshake: In the handshake, three chunks of data are sent by the client to the server. The foremost chunk is used for alerting the server for the type of protocol that is put to use. The second chunk then appears with a time stamp. The last and final chunk is only sent after the confirmation is received by the server about the first two. Once it receives the third chunk, the connection is finally made.
    
2. Connect: The server and client exchange some of the coded dialogue during the connection phase. “AMF” is used as the code language for the connection. The sole intent of this dialogue is to establish an “all clear” connection to commence the stream.
    
3. Stream: Once the connection has been made successfully and the handshake is complete, the stream is now ready to go. This process is a bit complex, however, the technology is devised to make the transmission quick and robust.

The Advantages of RTMP Ingest

With RTMP ingest, there are innumerable benefits of streaming live videos online. Essentially, it ensures simple and easy access to the encoders. RTMP encoders are hassle-free to set up and are relatively inexpensive. 

Nevertheless, RTMP ingest can be deployed on any channel setup in order to receive it from any location across the globe. The approach does not require that the IP address or location of the encoder is known as long as you set up the channel beforehand. 

With RTMP ingest, your event can be tested from one particular location and then shift at any time to an event venue without having to change the CDN channel set up or any delay.

Moreover, when combined with HLS, RTMP ingest yields the lowest latency possible, making it one of the most reliable and efficient protocols.

Live video streaming app development with Oodles Technologies

At Oodles Technologies, we build custom and feature-rich live video streaming applications for popular streaming platforms. Our team is skilled at delivering quality live and on-demand video streaming solutions using future-focused technologies. Here are some of the features that we offer:
 

• Real-time stats
• Advertising Support
• Pay per View
• Global Live Video CDN
• Video CMS
• Video Analytics
• Credits Roll Over
• Privacy Controls
• Video Security
• Full-time Customer Support

If you are looking for VOD app development services or live video streaming app development solutions, feel free to drop us a line. Our experts will get back to you within 24 hours.