A streaming video server is a specialized computer system or software that is designed to deliver video content over the internet in real-time. It works by compressing and encoding the video data into a format that can be easily transmitted over the internet and then delivering it to users through a streaming protocol, such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) or Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP).
When a user requests to watch a video, the streaming video server sends the data in small chunks called "segments" which are then played back in sequence by the user's device. This allows users to start watching a video before it has fully downloaded, reducing buffering and wait times. Streaming video servers also often support adaptive bitrate streaming, which adjusts the quality of the video stream based on the user's internet connection speed to ensure a smooth playback experience.
Streaming video servers are commonly used by content providers to deliver live events, such as sports games, concerts, and conferences, as well as on-demand video content such as movies, TV shows, and web series. They are also used by businesses and educational institutions to host online training sessions, webinars, and other types of online events