FAQ
Common questions about setting up live video streaming software and hardware, connecting to streaming servers, and troubleshooting live video broadcasts.
What software is best for live video streaming as a beginner?
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is the most popular choice for beginners — it is free, open-source, and supports a wide range of streaming servers. xSplit Broadcaster is another user-friendly option with a clean interface. Both have full step-by-step tutorials available on this page to get you streaming quickly.
How do I connect my video encoder to a streaming server?
In your encoder's settings, enter the streaming server URL or address, port, and stream key provided in your Primcast dashboard. Most software and hardware encoders have a dedicated "Stream" or "Output" settings section where these fields are entered. Our tutorials for each encoder walk you through exactly where to find and fill in these values.
What bitrate should I use for live video streaming?
For 720p streaming at 30fps, a bitrate of 2,500–4,000 kbps is recommended. For 1080p at 30fps, aim for 4,000–6,000 kbps. Your upload speed should comfortably exceed your chosen bitrate. If viewers experience buffering, try lowering the bitrate or resolution in your encoder settings.
Can I stream live video from a mobile device?
Yes. Wowza GoCoder allows you to stream live video directly from your iOS device to a streaming server. Simply install the app, enter your Primcast server credentials, and start broadcasting. See the Wowza GoCoder tutorial on this page for the full setup walkthrough.
Why is my live video stream lagging or dropping frames?
Dropped frames and lag are most commonly caused by a video bitrate that exceeds your available upload bandwidth, high CPU usage from encoding, or an unstable network connection. Try reducing your output resolution or bitrate, close background applications to free up CPU resources, and check that your network connection is stable before going live.
