Codecs

Video Streaming Technologies and Optimization Video streaming has become a standard way to share media online. The goal is smooth playback at the smallest possible data rate. To reach that, teams mix the right protocols, encoding, and delivery methods. Good planning reduces buffering and keeps users satisfied. Two common streaming protocols are HLS and DASH. Both cut video into small segments and let players switch quality as bandwidth changes. HLS is widely supported on iOS and many browsers; DASH is popular for web apps and Android. They share a simple idea: adapt in real time. ...

Video Streaming Technologies: Encoding Delivery and Monetization Video streaming connects creators with audiences around the world. Behind every smooth playback are three core areas: encoding, delivery, and monetization. Understanding these parts helps teams choose the right codecs, networks, and business models for their audience. Encoding Encoding turns raw footage into compressed files that travel over the internet. Core choices are codecs: H.264, HEVC (H.265), AV1, and sometimes VP9. Each codec trades efficiency for complexity. Most publishers run a three-tier ladder: 480p, 1080p, and 4K to cover phones, laptops, and TVs. Transcoding creates these versions from one master file, so viewers get a good path even on slower networks. Packaging with CMAF keeps segments small and fast to switch between. The result is better picture quality at a lower data cost. Example ladder: 480p at 500 kbps, 1080p at 2–6 Mbps, 4K at 15–30 Mbps. ...

VoIP and WebRTC for Real Time Communication VoIP and WebRTC both help real-time communication, but they work at different layers. VoIP focuses on voice calls over the internet, often with servers that connect users and manage sessions. WebRTC is a set of browser APIs that lets audio, video, and data flow directly between peers, usually with no plugins. Together they let apps support live conversations right in the browser or on mobile devices. ...

Music Streaming: The Tech Behind The Playlist Music streaming blends networks, formats, and software to bring songs from a catalog to your ears. When you hit play, a quick sequence happens behind the screen: metadata is checked, a stream is chosen, and data travels through networks to your device. The result is smooth playback, even on shaky connections. How a Playlist Comes Alive A playlist starts with catalog data. The app fetches track titles, artist info, and licensing notes. Then it asks for the audio stream in a chosen quality. While you listen, your player stays in motion, buffering tiny pieces of audio and adjusting the flow to fit your connection. ...

Video Streaming: Delivery, Standards, and Quality Video streaming is more than moving data. It is a blend of delivery networks, accepted standards, and the viewer’s experience. This guide explains how delivery works, the main standards, and how quality affects watching. Delivery in practice: HTTP-based streaming breaks video into small segments and uses multiple bitrate versions. A content delivery network (CDN) places segments close to viewers. Players choose the best bitrate in real time based on network conditions and device capabilities. Standards and formats: ...

VoIP and WebRTC: Real-Time Communication in Practice Real-time communication powers many daily tasks, from a quick phone call to a live support chat. VoIP and WebRTC are two cornerstones that make this possible. VoIP has a longer history and often follows traditional phone-style signaling, while WebRTC lets browsers handle audio and video directly, without plugins. Together they enable flexible setups for offices, apps, and websites. The goal remains simple: convert speech to data, send it over the internet, and play it back cleanly on the other end. ...

Audio and Video Encoding: Formats, Codecs, and Quality Video and audio encoding compress large media into smaller files for storage and delivery. A format, or container, holds the streams and metadata. A codec is the method used to compress the data inside each stream. Together they determine how a file behaves on devices and in browsers. Common containers include MP4, MKV, and WebM. Video codecs include H.264 (AVC), HEVC (H.265), VP9, and AV1. Audio codecs include AAC, MP3, Opus, and FLAC. Each choice affects file size, decoding load, and compatibility. For many projects, you balance reach and efficiency to fit your audience. ...

Audio and Video Encoding Fundamentals Encoding is the process of turning raw audio and video into compact digital streams. Encoders use codecs to compress data. Lossy codecs reduce file size by discarding some information, while lossless formats keep every bit. For most online use, lossy codecs provide a practical balance of quality and size. Video basics include resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and color. Common color is 4:2:0 with 8‑bit depth, though higher bit depth and chroma formats exist. Containers like MP4 and MKV wrap video, audio, and metadata. Modern codecs such as H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC), and AV1 offer better compression than older options. Audio tracks inside these containers often use AAC or Opus, chosen for compatibility and efficiency. ...

VoIP and WebRTC: Real-Time Communication VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. WebRTC is a set of tools that lets browsers and apps send audio, video, and data in real time. Together they enable calls, meetings, and collaboration over the internet without extra software. WebRTC handles the media path and some network tricks, while VoIP focuses on signaling and call control in many setups. If you use a browser, WebRTC lets you join a call directly. If you connect to a traditional phone system, VoIP can bridge to it using SIP gateways. ...

Video Streaming: Technologies Behind Smooth Playback Smooth video playback relies on a chain of technologies working together. From encoding choices to the last mile delivery, each step must adapt to changing networks and device capabilities. This overview explains the main layers that keep videos playing without annoying pauses. Encoding and packaging set the stage. A video is encoded at several bitrates and grouped into small segments. Short segments let the player switch up or down quickly as bandwidth changes. Typical segments span a few seconds, balancing fast startup with smooth transitions during playback. ...