Streaming Media

webhappy · #1 (**permalink**) 02-20-09, 19:35

Do you need any special software to run a streaming media server, or can you do this strictly using various scripts? I am interested in setting up a site with a continual podcast that would use a streaming media layout of some sort.

Lazlo90 · #2 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 10:51

If I'm not mistaken, there's a special add-on for WordPress made especially for those interested in podcasting. I believe that it even works on a shared host, however if you had a bunch of listeners it's not a good idea to use a shared host for it due to bandwidth concerns.

You could probably use a VPS for it if you have a medium sized audience and upgrade to a dedicated server once your audience grew. You could also use a free 3rd party podcast host just for hosting the actual sound files and use your server to host the software that organizes them.

HappyNerd · #3 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 10:59

If you are using any sort of content managament system, such as WordPress, Drupal or Joomla, then check to see if they have an add-on. There is a plugin for WordPress that enables the features that you would need for a podcast.

BodShane · #4 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 14:15

It's not necessary that you have do it through Wordpress and it can directly be installed on the main server.

webhappy · #5 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 14:15

Thanks guys, I do like wordpress so I will check out the plugins for it and see what I can come up with. That would make for a easy install too.
Thanks again, for your suggestions!

carl owen · #6 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 17:08

If you are looking to host Streaming Media on a Windows Dedicated server then it requires Windows Media services.

If you are looking to host Streaming Media on Linux then your Linux Dedicated server will will require Red 5. It is normally not pre-installed on the server.

It is always better to Select a higher configuration Dedicated server for Streaming Media as it requires more resources and it improves performance.

Lazlo90 · #7 (**permalink**) 02-26-09, 20:34

I was not aware of those specifications for streaming media, I always figured it was only done via a CMS such as Wordpress as most sites I've seen do it like that. It looks like I just learned something today, heh.

BodShane · #8 (**permalink**) 02-27-09, 09:03

Well, there are many more solutions when we speak of Streaming media and Wordpress is not the only option.

Regards,

Shane Phillips

carl owen · #9 (**permalink**) 02-27-09, 16:43

Definitely. You can also consider installing other third party applications on your server for Live streaming which can be done easily as you will have Full root/Administration access to your Dedicated server ;)

MattBarthorp · #10 (**permalink**) 03-16-09, 03:34

Quote:

Originally Posted by carl owen

If you are looking to host Streaming Media on a Windows Dedicated server then it requires Windows Media services.

If you are looking to host Streaming Media on Linux then your Linux Dedicated server will will require Red 5. It is normally not pre-installed on the server.

It is always better to Select a higher configuration Dedicated server for Streaming Media as it requires more resources and it improves performance.

Yes I agree with Carl about the selection of dedicated server, but why put more pressure on the pocket. Start with a plan whose resources are just above that is demanded by your site.Check for the performance, upgrade only if you feel the necessity,else you would waste the server resources and your money as well.But choosing a web host that offers flexibility is important. You should be able to upgrade plans without causing any downtime.
A dedicated server would provide the best performance of your website and would majorly help in the success of the website.

Regards,
Matt

Martin · #11 (**permalink**) 03-16-09, 07:43

I don't think that you will be able to podcast on the shared server. I agree with all that dedicated servers are the best solution to podcast or media streaming.

BodShane · #12 (**permalink**) 03-16-09, 10:02

Well, i won't deny the fact that it's not possible. It is possible on a shared hosting server depending upon the resources allocated along with the server and if the server supports podcast / streaming websites.

Regards,

Shane Phillips

carl owen · #13 (**permalink**) 03-16-09, 12:44

Streaming media is possible with Shared hosting also. However, it will only be possible if you do not need more resources and you have less number of users online at a single point of time. If you have a good number of visitors at the same point of time you will surely need more resources and a Dedicated server will be the best option for you.