S8. Explain the functioning of HTTP adaptive streaming Flashcards
What is HTTP adaptive streaming?
A technique used to efficiently and seamlessly deliver video content over the Internet, adapting in real time to the viewer’s network conditions
How does HTTP adaptive streaming provide a smooth viewing experience?
By dynamically adjusting the quality of the video stream based on available bandwidth and device capabilities.
How does HTTP adaptive streaming adjust the quality of the video stream?
The video is encoded into multiple versions with different bitrates and resolutions. These versions are divided into smaller segments, typically a few seconds each. Alongside the segments, a manifest file is created, listing all available versions and their corresponding segments.
When a viewer starts playing a video, the client device (e.g. a web browser) downloads the manifest file to understand the available video qualities and segment locations. The client initially requests a segment that matches the user’s current network conditions. As the video plays, the client continuously monitors the network bandwidth, buffer status, and device performance.
What is a manifest file?
A manifest file lists all available versions of a video (different bitrates and resolutions) and their corresponding segments.
How does the client know which version of the file to request?
It first downloads the manifest file where it finds the available video qualities and segment locations. Then it chooses a segment that matches the user’s current network conditions. As the video plays, the client continuously monitors the network bandwidth, buffer status, and device performance to know which segment to request next.
What is bitrate and resolution?
Bitrate measures the quality of the video (color depth, compression, audio frequency) , resolution is the size of the video (eg 1024p)
How does the client adjust video quality based on network conditions?
If the client detects that the network conditions have improved, it will request the next segment at a higher bitrate, providing better video quality. Conversely, if the network conditions worsen or the device performance drops, the client will switch to a lower bitrate version to maintain smooth playback without buffering interruptions.
How does adaptive streaming enhance the viewer’s experience?
By adapting video quality in real time, buffering is minimized and playback optimized based on network conditions and device capabilities.
