Video or audio transmitted over a network that users can begin to play immediately instead of waiting for the entire file to download. Typically a few seconds of data is sent ahead and buffered in case of network transmission delays. (Although some data is buffered to the hard drive, it is written to temporary storage and is gone once viewing is complete.) RealMedia, QuickTime and Windows Media are the most common streaming formats.
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Streaming means a continual display of a media without interruption. Video and/or audio transmitted is over a network for users to play the media without downloading the file. In streaming, some data may be initially downloaded to allow the user to begin viewing the material without delays. A streaming website will pre-load a portion of the media before playing (buffer) to allow a seamless experience without pausing while more media loads. In some situations when data speeds are low, the media may pause to load enough data to continue playing. Any downloaded data while streaming is used in temporary storage and deleted when complete.
Latest revision as of 02:04, 3 June 2026
Streaming means a continual display of a media without interruption. Video and/or audio transmitted is over a network for users to play the media without downloading the file. In streaming, some data may be initially downloaded to allow the user to begin viewing the material without delays. A streaming website will pre-load a portion of the media before playing (buffer) to allow a seamless experience without pausing while more media loads. In some situations when data speeds are low, the media may pause to load enough data to continue playing. Any downloaded data while streaming is used in temporary storage and deleted when complete.
