What is a stream? Easily explained
When you are on the Internet, you come across the term "streaming" in many places. In this practical tip, we explain what a stream is and what types there are.
Audio or video stream: an explanation
- A stream on the Internet refers to the continuous transfer of data from audio or video material over a network to your own PC.
- In contrast to downloading, no data is permanently stored on your computer during streaming. If you watch a video on YouTube, for example, it is transferred directly to your computer, played and then discarded.
- There are two types of streaming: on-demand streaming and live streaming.
- On-demand streaming provides content that can be called up by the user at any time when needed. Well-known examples of such services are YouTube or Netflix, where you can watch films or videos around the clock. There are also numerous providers of music streaming.
- Live streaming broadcasts content in real time. If you call up a corresponding page on the Internet, you can follow the video or audio stream live - similar to watching TV.
- The well-known live streams include the online platforms Twitch and YouNow.
Earn money with ease with your own Twitch TV stream
In another practical tip, we explain what a driver is and what it is used for on the computer.