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Understand Live Video Delay

This article explains why there's delay (or latency) of 30 seconds to 1 minute on live video.

Mindy Worley avatar
Written by Mindy Worley
Updated over 10 months ago

When streaming live video, a time delay of 30 seconds – 1 minute is caused by several factors, including:

  • The encoder – The encoding process adds a minor delay.

  • Server buffer – Ensuring that all the data packets arrive (and in the correct order) adds a few seconds of delay.

  • Client buffer – This helps to reduce interruptions caused by abrupt bandwidth changes. It can add a few seconds of delay.

  • Content Delivery Network (CDN) – At the backbone of video delivery are thousands of servers that deliver video to viewers. This network can add a few seconds of delay.

  • Streaming Delivery Protocols – Some protocols, including HTTP Live Streaming, require a certain amount of content to be buffered before playback begins. Depending on the configuration, this can add 10 – 30 seconds of delay.

If you're using a BoxCaster, BoxCaster Pro, Spark, or the Broadcaster mobile app, you can adjust the video delay based on your needs. Learn more about BoxCast Flow Control.

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