🗓️ 09092025 1158
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adaptive_streaming_architecture
TLDR
Let video players automatically adjust quality based on network conditions
How It Works
- Segmentation: Break video into small chunks (2-10 seconds each)
- Quality Variants: Create same content at different bitrates
- Manifest File: Describe available qualities and segment locations
- Player Logic: Switch between qualities based on bandwidth
Protocols
- HLS (HTTP Live Streaming): Apple standard, .m3u8 manifests
- DASH: Industry standard, .mpd manifests
- Both use HTTP: Leverage existing web infrastructure
Segment Strategy
video.mp4 →
- 480p/segment_001.ts (10 seconds)
- 480p/segment_002.ts (10 seconds)
- 720p/segment_001.ts (10 seconds)
- 720p/segment_002.ts (10 seconds)
- manifest.m3u8 (describes all variants)
Benefits
- No buffering: Player switches quality instead of waiting
- Optimal bandwidth usage: Higher quality when possible
- Works across devices: Standard HTTP, no special protocols
- CDN friendly: Segments cache well