Product Configuration/Buying Guide
- What operating systems does Adobe® Flash® Media Server software run on?
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Supported operating systems
- Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 64 bit
- Red Hat® Enterprise Linux® Server 5.5 64 bit
- Linux CentOS 5.5 64 bit
- Windows 7 32/64 bit (for Flash Media Development Server only)
Minimum hardware requirements
- 3.2GHz Intel® Pentium® 4 processor (dual Intel Xeon® or faster recommended)
- 64-bit operating systems: 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended)
- 1Gb Ethernet card
- Does Flash Media Server support 64-bit operating systems?
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No. Starting on September 8, 2011, Flash Media Server 4.5 will only be available on 64-bit operating systems. Flash Media Development Server can be installed on Windows 7 32 bit but not recommended for production.
- How much does Flash Media Server cost?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 is offered in four editions:
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Adobe Flash Media Streaming Server 4.5: US$995, upgrade from US$249
Reach your complete video audience on every device with RTMP and HTTP streaming to Adobe Flash and Apple iOS. New on demand and live http delivery simplifies your publishing workflow and gets you started quickly.Adobe Flash Media Interactive Server 4.5: US$4,500, upgrade from US$349
Protect and distribute your media using HTTP delivery with secure protection for Flash and Apple iOS that is easy to use and scalable. Target larger audiences and reduce costs with new p2p and IP multicast delivery for massive scale and high quality.Adobe Flash Media Enterprise Server 4.5: Call for pricing
Serve more viewers and reach more devices with high quality voice and video capabilities in Flash Player to a universe of SIP-enabled devices. Add massive scale with p2p capacity for your social application or enterprise broadcasts.Adobe Flash Media Development Server 4.5: Free
Serve video over RTMP for up to 10 concurrent users, and use p2p for up to 50 concurrent RTMFP connections and test drive HTTP Dynamic Streaming for Flash or HLS streaming for Apple iOS.Find out more on the Flash Media Server family pages.
- Are there educational discounts?
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Yes, the educational pricing for these products is US$3,600 for Flash Media Interactive Server and US$796 for Flash Media Streaming Server.
- How are CPU's counted with Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 has changed the CPU license allowance. As of September 8, 2011 all servers will be sold “per server”. Customers upgrading from previous versions will be upgraded to a per server license from the previous per CPU license.
- How are Virtual Servers licensed with Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 has changed the Virtual Server license limits. As of September 8, 2011, Virtual Servers will be counted as a single server. Customers upgrading from previous versions will be upgraded to a per server license from the previous Virtual Server license configuration. For example, if you have 2 Virtual Servers running on a single hardware, you will require 2 Flash Media Server licenses.
- Is there a separate license required for Flash Media Gateway 4.5 to enable SIP?
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No. Flash Media Gateway 4.5 software is included in Flash Media Server DVD or electronic download. You can install Flash Media Gateway on the same server as Flash Media Server 4.5 or a separate server using the same serial number. Flash Media Gateway required a license of Flash Media Enterprise Server 4.5.
- What new features are being introduced in Flash Media Server 4.5?
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- HTTP Media Origin services for Flash and Apple iOS streaming — Live and on-demand streams to both Flash-enabled and Apple iOS devices through standard HTTP caching and network infrastructures using the integrated HTTP server as an Origin service.
- Protected Flash HTTP Dynamic Streaming — Easily protect live or on demand video with scalable encryption and SWF verification providing protection across multiple screens supporting Adobe Flash or AIR.
- Multicast Ingest — Replicate live video more efficiently within your network. Multicast Ingest enables Flash Media Server to consume, record and republish multicast streams to additional multicast networks — or drop down to unicast, HTTP Dynamic Streaming or even HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for Apple devices.
- Scalable and robust peer to peer server deployment — New capabilities to improve the robustness and resiliency of applications using peer assisted networking with distributed RTMFP introductions. This new functionality enables multiple servers to work together to facilitate large or distributed peer groups for high-volume streaming and interactive applications.
- IP Multicast Improvements — New support for Source Specific Multicast (SSM) reduces demand on network resources by giving Flash Media Server the ability to generate and consume both SSM and Any Source Multicast (ASM), enabling stream replication, server side recording, or rebroadcast over separate multicast channels or RTMFP groups. SSM support.
- More secure multiprotocol streaming — Choose to deliver live and on-demand streams using the industry-standard HTTP protocol with HTTP Dynamic Streaming support, industry-standard RTMP/RTMPE, or the new RTMFP for real-time, ultralow latency communication with SWF file verification support to add even more protection. Now deliver to Apple devices with new Apple HTTP Streaming support, with optional AES128 encryption.
- Simplified player development — Easily implement the latest player features such as HTTP Dynamic Streaming, multicast streaming, Flash Access protection, RTMP Dynamic Streaming, and DVR functionality with a choice of prebuilt player (Strobe Media Playback), a hosted player (Adobe Flash Media Playback), or the OSMF.
- Why choose Flash Media Interactive Server over Flash Media Streaming Server for video delivery?
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Flash Media Interactive Server offers protected HTTP streaming for Flash and Apple devices and can be used for communication applications including the RTMFP protocol for p2p communication:
- Real Time encryption with Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming (PHDS) new
- Introduction server for up to 500 p2p connections new
- Multicast Fusion with stream recording, replicating or rebroadcast over RTMFP new
- RTMP-based DVR support (note Streaming Server supports DVR with HTTP Streaming)
- RTMP Edge caching support
- Plug-in architecture for deep authentication and integration
- Stream splitting for rebroadcasting streams over multiple servers, networks or protocols
- Server-side playlists to mash your streams together
- Server-side video recording
- Why choose Flash Media Enterprise Server over other editions?
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Flash Media Enterprise Server 4.5 is your ultimate communication server that supports audio and video using SIP communication that extends the other servers with over 15,000 concurrent RTMFP/p2p introductions plus all the features and functionality of Flash Media Interactive Server.
- Why would I host my own Flash Media Server for HTTP streaming?
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Hosting your own Flash Media Server 4.5 for HTTP streaming can be used in conjunction with large Content Delivery Networks to offer more control over your media content.
By hosting your own HTTP origin you can:
- Have more control over quality of service.
- Access new features on the Flash platform without waiting for CDNs to deploy
- Support streaming to Flash and Apple iOS without any additional costs
- Protect your video before it leaves your network
- Develop more fault tolerance in your live stream delivery
- Deliver the same streams across multiple CDNs
- Enable live DVR functionalities
- Why would I host my own Flash Media Server vs. using a CDN for Enterprise streaming?
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Streaming with your enterprise or a closed network is much more cost-effective, as the servers are part of the network. You can control access and delivery channels, plus manage the load on your network with the origin/edge configuration of Flash Media Interactive Server. You can also deploy deep authentication and interactive solutions that CDNs do not support.
You can also support more advanced media delivery options including Multicast and Multicast Fusion using the encrypted RTMFP protocol.
- What Protocol does what?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 is a multi-protocol media delivery and communication server. Each protocol has unique capabilities listed below:
RTMP/TCP TMFP/UDP HTTP/TCP Used to stream high quality live and video on demand content Used for IP Multicast and p2p applications Used for Adaptive bitrate delivery, and progressive delivery Connection can be encrypted with SWF Verification support Connection is always encrypted with SWF Verification support Content (not connection) is encrypted with Flash Access or PHDS for Flash or AES128 encryption for Apple iOS. Can be used for low-latency communications Can be used for low-latency communications Can only be used for video delivery - Does Flash Media Server support IPV6?
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Yes, IPV6 has been supported by Flash Media Server since version 3 (2008).
- Is Flash Media Server 4.5 scalable?
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Yes, Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server support edge caching configurations for RTMP. The origin and edge architecture provides the caching services required for large and distributed installations.
New RTMFP/P2P capabilities in Flash Media Server improve the robustness and resiliency of applications using peer assisted networking. With distributed RTMFP introductions, multiple servers can work together to facilitate large or distributed peer groups making high volume streaming and multi-user applications more scalable.
- Why would I choose Flash Media Server over clone servers?
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Flash Media Server offers:
- Adobe product compatibility — Flash Media Server fully supports Flash Player, AIR, and Flash Lite.
- On Demand HTTP Dynamic Streaming new — Package F4F files in real time from existing MP4 or FLV video files, simplifying the workflow for HTTP delivery and eliminating the need for pre-packaging content for Flash Player.
- Easy to use content protection new — More than 20 CDNs worldwide push over 800 petabytes of video data through Flash Media Server each year.
- Stronger protection — Protect adaptive bitrate video on demand and live streams at the same time to both Apple devices and Flash-enable devices. Add even more DRM protection with Adobe Flash Access with consistent support across desktops, devices and Smart TVs.
- Secure multicast including multicast fusion — You can support higher quality video in your enterprise without impacting your network, now with enhancements such as stream replication, server side recording, and rebroadcast.
- A more robust experience — With applications like Adobe Connect™ and partners like Akamai constantly driving the technology, Flash Media Server has real-world deployments that are robust and difficult to duplicate.
- CDN support — More than 20 CDNs worldwide push over 800 petabytes of video data through Flash Media Server each year.
- Live video — Flash Media Live Encoder supports H.264 live streaming and DVR functionality. Streaming via clone servers is not supported with Flash Media Live Encoder.
- Peer-assisted networking — You can reduce your bandwidth costs by using Flash Player to help distribute video and data.
- UDP communication — This feature provides lower latency for real-time communication applications.
- Absolute timecode — This feature enables improved synchronization options.
- SWF file verification — An important part of protected content and communication delivery is to make sure your SWF files are not compromised.
- Are Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) required to support Flash Media Server 4.5?
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No. Flash Media Server 4.5 can be configured as a remote Origin Server for HTTP Delivery. If you don't want to run your own origin, Adobe is working closely with CDN partners to enable HTTP and RTMP services. Contact individual partners to learn more about their plans.
- Do web hosting providers support Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Yes. Adobe has partnered with Influxis to offer Flash Media Server 4.5 functionality as a hosted service to support p2p communications, game development and video chat applications.
- Does Flash Media Server 4.5 support HTML5?
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Yes. Flash Media Server can deliver content to HTML5 on Apple iOS devices using the HLS streaming format. For other browsers supporting HTML5, you can use Flash Media Server to progressively deliver.
- How many Servers do I need for HTTP Streaming?
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Flash Media Server's on demand packaging can support 100's of files being packaged at the same time. Once a file has been packaged, it will remain in the HTTP cache for the next person. When used with HTTP Caching technologies (i.e. Varnish or SQUID) and CDNs your scalability increases dramatically. If you are streaming only a few files to a large audience, the demand on Flash Media Server is low. If you are streaming a large number of different files to an audience, the impact on the server increases.
For Apple iOS streaming, there is no additional impact on the server capacity.
For streaming with Encryption there will be an impact on the number of concurrent files that can be packaged.
- Do I need a separate license for Flash Access to support Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming?
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No. Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming requires no additional licenses.
- Is Flash Media Server 4.5 scalable?
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Yes, both Flash Media Enterprise Server 4.5 and Flash Media Interactive Server 4.5 support RTMP edge caching configurations. The origin and edge architecture provides the caching services required for large and distributed installations. You can also use both of these editions to split live streams to multiple locations to improve load balancing.
RTMFP applications are now more easily scalable with the new introduction forwarding features that allow multiple servers to be used to manage your p2p group.
- Are Flash Media Server 4.5 applications and configurations compatible with Flash Media Server 3, 3.5, or 4?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 has full backward compatibility with versions 3, 3.5, and 4. Custom C++ plug-ins that were written for 3 or 3.5 will need to be recompiled for deployment in 64 bit:
- Client-side ActionScript: You should test your application to ensure compatibility.
- Server-side ActionScript: Limited changes have been made to the server-side APIs.
- Configuration files: Configuration files have had significant changes. Back up your previous-version configuration files and transfer to version 4.5 configurations.
- RTMP Origin/edge: Mixed version 3.x and version 4.5 origin/edge servers are not supported.
- How does Flash Media Server integrate into my network?
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Flash Media Server runs on either Windows® or Linux 64 bit operating systems. The XML-based configuration and C++ plug-ins allow a great deal of customization. Media files can be stored on the local server or in remote locations. Plug-ins can be configured to provide access control, directory/file mapping, authentication, or additional security features.
Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server can be configured as RTMP origin/edge, allowing virtually unlimited scalability and optimum network efficiency. These servers also support Multicast and P2P media delivery.
All versions of Flash Media Server include an integrated HTTP server preconfigured for HTTP Streaming to Flash and Apple devices, which allows you to serve all elements of your application from one server and even fall back to progressive media delivery when RTMP is not available to the client.
- What do I need to do in my network to prepare for Flash Media Server?
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Flash Media Server can use multiple protocols over both TCP and UDP. All protocols can be configured and enabled or disabled. Ports and protocols must be enabled on your network for Flash Media Server to operate normally.
The RTMP protocol (used for video streaming and communication) default TCP port is 1935, but it can also operate over port 443 (for SSL) and port 80 using a tunneling version of the protocol. Flash Player has a built-in port priority that may choose to communicate over these protocols.
The HTTP protocol default is TCP port 80, shared with RTMP tunneled (RTMPT). The internal HTTP server will communicate to the Flash Media Server internally using port 8134.
RTMFP (used for P2P introductions or Multicast) uses UDP with a configurable port range.
Multicast-enabled network hardware is required to take advantage of native IP multicast. This approach is best for internal, enterprise, VPN, or LAN networks.
Flash Media Server administration operates over default TCP port 1111.
- Where can I learn more about how to deploy Flash Media Server in my network?
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Adobe together with the Flash Media Server community produce numerous whitepapers and case studies on the Adobe Developer Connection. Two very important articles you should review before deploying your Flash Media Server include:
Large Scale Deployments of Flash Media Server
Hardening Guide for Flash Media Server - What are the productivity tools available for Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Flash Media Server has numerous tools available that enable advanced server integration, media preparation and feature extensions. Most tools are available within the shipping product and some are available from http://www.adobe.com/go/fms_tools/
Productivity Tool Description Manifest Generator (new!) For HTTP Streaming, this tool makes it easy to create F4M and M3u8 manifest files for your live or video on demand streams SWF Hasher (new!) For HTTP Dynamic Streaming, this tool converts a SWF or AIR file into a hash to provide protection to the stream Multicast Configuration Tool For Multicast, to generate an F4M manifest file for IP Multicast, p2p multicast or Multicast Fusion that can be used with OSMF, Flash Media Playback, or Strobe Media Playback. f4fpackager
(optional) For HTTP Dynamic Streaming, optional pre-packaging process for F4F files to deliver using HTTP web servers. Download from: http://www.adobe.com/go/httpdynamicstreaming/. Apache Origin Module (optional) For HTTP Dynamic Streaming of pre-packaged F4F files, this module can be used with an HTTP Apache server. Download from: http://www.adobe.com/go/httpdynamicstreaming/. FMSCheck Command-line program that can check on the health of critical Flash Media Server subsystems. You can use it within your own script to report the status of the server. FLVCheck Tool that verifies the structure of the FLV file so it can be streamed. This tool will also support the validation of MPEG-4 structures. F4V flattener Tool that prepares F4V video recorded with Flash Media Server or Flash Media Live Encoder so video can be edited using software such as Adobe Premiere® Pro CS5.5 Flash Media Playback Pre-built video player hosted by Adobe with built-in support for RTMP, HTTP Dynamic Streaming, Multicast, and Multicast Fusion with Peer Assisted Networking. Strobe Media Playback Source code player for Flash Media Playback to build custom video players based on a prebuilt player. Open Source Media Playback (OSMF) Open Source code for developers to build custom video experiences for desktop and devices. Flash Media Server Administration Console Management tool to monitor server operations in real time including bandwidth, connection, and stream information and perform basic administration operations such as restarting the server. DVRCast App Prebuilt server-side application to extend Flash Media Server RTMP streaming to make it easy to add RTMP DVR functionality. Download from: http://www.adobe.com/go/fms_tools/. LiveStreamCast Prebuilt server-side application to extend and scale Flash Media Server for live RTMP video delivery. Download from: http://www.adobe.com/go/fms_tools/. - Does Flash Media Server have logging?
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Yes. W3C-compliant ASCII logs, a real-time usage monitor, and a complete API for server and stream events help ensure that you have all the tools you need to track and generate reports on your audience's content use.
- Where can I download maintanence upgrades?
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Flash Media Server Maintenance upgrades are available at: http://www.adobe.com/support/flashmediaserver/downloads_updaters.html
- What support options are available for Flash Media Server?
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You can find extensive online documentation and support files for Flash Media Server on the resources page, along with a wealth of tutorials and sample code in the Flash Media Server Developer Center. If you require a higher level of product support, you can enroll in one of Adobe's support programs.
- Where can I find an expert?
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Adobe maintains a directory of Flash Media Server solution providers. Their services range from encoding and publishing to advertising, delivery and consulting. You can also find helpful experts on the Flash Media Server forums and related discussion lists, or check the directory of resources.
Adobe Enablement Partners: http://www.adobe.com/products/flashmediaserver/fmsp/consulting.html
Adobe FMS Forums: http://forums.adobe.com/community/flash/flash_media_server
FlashComGuru Website: http://www.flashcomguru.com/
FlashStreamworks Website: http://www.flashstreamworks.com/
FlashConnections Website: http://www.flashconnections.com/
Video Streaming
Flash Media Server is a robust and secure video streaming platform that reaches multiple devices across multiple networks.
- What options do I have to stream video with Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Flash Media Server has multiple ways to delivery video. Each method has unique benefits:
Streaming Method Description RTMP Dynamic Streaming (Unicast) High quality, low latency media streaming with support for live and on demand and full adaptive bitrate RTMPe (Protected RTMP) Real time encryption of RTMP RTMFP (Multicast) IP multicast encrypted with support for both ASM or SSM multicast for multicast enabled network RTMFP (P2P) P2P live video delivery between Flash player clients RTMFP (Multicast Fusion) IP and P2P working together to support higher QoS within Enterprise networks. HTTP Dynamic Streaming (HDS) HTTP Dynamic Streaming enables on-demand and live adaptive bitrate video streaming of standards-based MP4 media over regular HTTP connections Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming (PHDS) Real Time encryption of HDS HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) HTTP Streaming to Apple iOS devices or devices that support the HLS format. Optional encryption with AES128. - What version of Adobe Flash Player software will support Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 has support from Flash Player version 6. Significant enhancements have been developed to improve playback quality with newer versions of the player.
Flash player version Protection Streaming Flash Player 6 No Client Cache RTMP, FLV, H263/Nellymoser/MP3 Flash Player 7 HTTP Progressive Download Flash Player 8 VP6 high quality decode Flash Player 9,0,115 RTMPe / SWF Verification H.264/AAC, Speex Audio Flash Player 10 RTMP Dynamic Streaming (Adaptive Bitrate), RTMFP Flash Player 10.1 Flash Access 2 DRM RTMFP Groups (p2p), HTTP Dynamic Streaming, Multicast, Acoustic Echo Cancellation (10.2), RTMP Trick Modes; Video Hardware acceleration Flash Player 11 Flash Access 3 DRM, Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming Mobile support for Flash Access; H.264 Video Capture; G711 Audio Capture; Mobile video hardware acceleration - Does Flash Media Server support HD streaming?
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Yes. High-definition video can be delivered via Flash Player using either the VP6 or the H.264 codec. H.264 can deliver great quality at lower bitrates. HD delivery is supported in both Live and On Demand over all protocols. HD video delivery is best used with Dynamic Streaming (RTMP or HTTP). HD video is streamed with either a 480p or 720p frame size with bitrates as high as 2–3Mbps
- What is progressive download?
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Media delivered from an HTTP web server is called progressive download. Progressive download is also supported by many HTML5 enabled browsers. You can use Flash Media Server to deliver video progressively with the integrated HTTP server. Progressive delivery does not support Live streaming, and does not support adaptive bitrate or other quality of service features.
- What is RTMP streaming?
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RTMP streaming media supports high quality of delivery and reduced playback disruptions and enables real time protection. RTMP Streaming supports live and on demand with adaptive bitrate to help ensure the best quality is received by the end user.
RTMP streaming has the following characteristics:
- Methods to detect a client's available bandwidth and switch to a stream with an optimized bitrate
- Faster playback start, with limited buffering required
- No content cached on the viewer's hard drive, providing added security
- Support for large media and seeking support, allowing viewers to skip to any part of the video without playback delays
- Trick mode delivery, supporting fast and slow playback and frame accurate seeking
- Stream reconnect, enabling stream recovery when network connections are interrupted
- Bandwidth efficiency, downloading only the portion of the video watched
- Live video
- Intelligent server memory usage to reduce reliance on the hard disk or network storage
- Efficient device memory usage because media does not need to be stored in memory to be played (as it does with progressive download)
- What is Dynamic Streaming?
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All editions of Flash Media Server support Dynamic Streaming with media encoded in multiple bitrates. Dynamic Streaming lets you switch smoothly between these video files to help ensure a high-quality experience for the video consumer. Dynamic streaming can be used with RTMP or HTTP to Flash, or HLS delivery to Apple iOS.
- What is Multicast?
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Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server support IP multicast streaming and recording for live video to Flash Player 10.1 or newer. Multicast is a highly optimized method to deliver high-quality video to a very large audience with virtually no impact on the server as demand increases.
Flash Media Server can generate a multicast broadcast from any live RTMP stream or a linear stream from a server-side playlist. Flash Player 10.1 and later clients do not need a server connection to receive the stream. Multicast is very useful for large-scale broadcasts within enterprise networks.
Video players developed with the OSMF will have full support for IP multicast.
Source Specific Multicast (SSM) lets you generate and consume both SSM and Any Source Multicast (ASM), enabling stream replication, server side recording, or rebroadcast over separate multicast channels or RTMFP groups. SSM support reduces the demand on the network resources while also improving security of the streams.
- What is Multicast fusion?
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Multicast fusion blends multicast and application-level multicast to allow you to deliver an improved live video experience over multiple offices that may or may not be multicast enabled. Multicast fusion provides the ultimate in flexibility and scale. Clients receiving an IP multicast can help deliver video to clients using application-level multicast. This functionality will improve stream performance and network optimization.
Video players developed with the OSMF will have full support for multicast fusion.
- What is Application-level multicast?
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Flash Media Enterprise Server supports application-level multicast, which uses a peer-to peer network to help deliver video over multiple different networks. Unlike IP multicast, application-level multicast does not require any network hardware changes and is useful to achieve maximum scale of high-quality video with limited network hardware or bandwidth impact.
Application-level multicast can be used as a one-to-many broadcast or used to support multi way communication between one-to-one or few-to-few scenarios. Application multicast will significantly reduce bandwidth for both public and private network applications.
Video players developed with the OSMF will have full support for application-level multicast.
- Why should I choose streaming over progressive download?
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Flash Media Server is both a streaming server and an HTTP server. Streaming (using RTMP and HTTP Dynamic Streaming) provides a higher QoS and a better user experience and adds more protection options for your content. Streaming makes it easier to deliver long-form media and high-quality (high bitrate) media. Users can also easily seek anywhere in the video with streaming delivery.
Progressive download (HTTP) delivery is useful for short video clips that need to persist on a client computer for offline playback. HTTP content that needs protection can be encrypted and managed using Flash Access. For more information, visit the Flash Access product page.
- What Codecs does Flash Media Server 4.5 support?
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Flash Media Server supports all the audio and video codecs available in Flash Player and AIR.
Codec Audio/Video Player Encode Available Since H263 / Sorenson Spark Video yes Flash Player 6 VP6 Video no Flash Player 8 H264 Video yes Flash Player 9 Nellymoser Audio yes Flash Player 6 MP3 Audio no Flash Player 6 Speex Audio yes Flash Player 9 HE-AAC / AAC+ Audio no Flash Player G711 Audio yes Flash Player 11 - Standard progressive delivery over HTTP seems cheaper. Is this true?
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Streaming video through Flash Media Server can support more concurrent high-quality streams per server than progressive download because streaming serves only the portion of the video that's requested. This can potentially save you substantial bandwidth charges — which could more than offset the cost of Flash Media Server licensing. Flash Media Server can also determine the most efficient stream to deliver to a client — either before streaming even starts with native bandwidth detection or during playback using RTMP Dynamic Streaming.
- What are the benefits of HTTP Dynamic Streaming?
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HTTP Dynamic Streaming enables you to leverage existing caching infrastructures (for example, CDNs, ISPs, office caching, home networking). This format enables broadcasters to operate a remote origin to delivery through multiple CDNs and optimize delivery to mobile devices.
- How do I prepare my content for HTTP Dynamic Streaming?
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Flash Media Server 4.5 supports real time packaging for HTTP Dynamic Streaming. There is no pre-packaging required for existing MP4 assets.
For the optimal user experience, Dynamic Streaming (both HTTP and RTMP) requires that:
- The different versions or pieces of content are synchronized (the video timelines must match)
- Audio or other data in each content stream is synchronized with the video data in that stream
To provide users with the smoothest experience, when you encode the content, follow these recommendations:
- Ensure that the video key frame interval (key frame frequency) and frame rate are consistent across the different versions of content. A shorter key frame interval lets the server switch streams more quickly, which means the client can have a smaller playback buffer.
- Use a consistent audio bitrate.
- Use a consistent audio sample rate as much as possible. For low-end encodings, you can save bandwidth by using mono audio rather than stereo.
- Can I stream to mobile devices?
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Yes, you can stream live and prerecorded video and audio to devices running browsers that support Flash Player or Flash Lite 3. You can also stream to devices that support AIR such as smartphones, desktops or smart TVs.
Full support for all streaming and communication protocols including application-level multicast using peer-assisted networking and protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming. Flash Media Server 4.5 also supports protected, adaptive bitrate streaming to Apple iOS using the HLS format.
- What is the difference between RTMP and HTTP Streaming?
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RTMP streaming establishes an encrypted session between the Flash Player client and Flash Media Server to deliver video and real time communications. RTMP requires a server connection for every stream being delivered. RTMP scaling is achieved by chaining multiple servers together to cache video content. RTMP is compatible by applications developed using Flash Player or AIR.
HTTP streaming does not maintain a persistent connection. Video is delivered by a series of HTTP requests from the player that is controlled by manifest files. Video is broken up into a series of smaller files (called segments or fragments) that are cached in the network to reach large scale. Protection is applied when files are packaged into the smaller fragments or segments.
Flash Media Server supports 2 HTTP file formats, HLS for Apple devices, and HDS for Flash applications. HTTP streaming is optimized for mobile delivery because of its caching features.
- What is the difference between HLS (Apple) and HDS?
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HLS is a file container format optimized for Apple devices. The container supports H.264/AAC encoded video/audio, and is based on MPEG2-TS transport stream. All video delivered to Apple iOS (including AIR for IOS) must use this format.
HDS is a file container format optimized for Flash applications. The container also supports H264/AAC encoded video/audio, and is based on MPEG4 transport stream. HDS is not supported on AIR for iOS.
- Why are H.264 and AAC+ CODECS so important?
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Adobe provides one of the leading online digital media delivery platforms with full support for standards-based H.264. Flash player supports all encoding profiles of H.264, and the codec is also built into the hardware of many mobile devices and can provide optimal viewing experiences without draining the battery.
You can leverage the same video and audio assets across multiple devices including both Apple iOS and Flash which helps to reduce your storage and content management. Flash Player 9 and later support the playback of formats derived from the MPEG-4 container such as F4V, MP4, M4A, MOV, MP4V, 3GP, and 3G2 if they contain H.264 video and/or HE-AAC audio. Apple iOS and the HLS format support MPEG2-TS with H.264 / AAC codecs.
- Where can I learn more about H.264?
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You can find information about Adobe's implementation of the H.264 codec on the H.264 page. For general information about the H.264 codec, visit Wikipedia.
- How many servers do I need for RTMP (Unicast)?
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There is no software limit set on the number of simultaneous RTMP streams you can serve on any Flash Media Server, but your configuration, server hardware and infrastructure may cause limitations in capacity.
You can reference the article “Calculating bandwidth needs for Flash Media Server 3” on the Adobe Developer Connection for further guidance on determining your server needs.
- How does Adaptive Bitrate impact my network?
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Dynamic Streaming helps improve delivery quality by delivering optimized media, encoded with multiple bitrates. Each “media set” consists of multiple files. Files are linked together using the Flash Media Manifest (F4M) file format and the video player contains the switching logic to ensure uninterrupted streams. Dynamic Streaming can be delivered using both RTMP and HTTP internet protocols.
- Does Flash Media Server support network-based DVR (nDVR)?
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Yes. Flash Media Server supports DVR with both RTMP and HTTP Dynamic Streaming. This functionality allows you to create live video experiences with instant replay, time-shifting or play from the beginning. DVR is supported in both Flash applications and on Apple iOS.
- What impact does DVR functionality have on my network and storage?
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DVR functionality requires that a disk or memory cache be available for the temporary recording of video. The cache size will determine the length of “rewind” supported. DVR functionality is supported for both HTTP Dynamic Streaming and RTMP Dynamic Streaming. Flash Media Server 4.5 now supports advanced disk management to control the size of your DVR archive window.
- Is RTMP-based DVR functionality supported with origin/edge?
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Yes, DVR functionality can be implemented with networks configured with origin/edge. The cache segments will exist on the origin server and will be delivered to the edge server on demand. The new RAW format combined with the DVRCast application gives you ultimate scale and performance options.
- Do CDNs support DVR functionality?
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Yes, some CDN partners are supporting this functionality. Contact your CDN for more details.
- What is server-side video recording?
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Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server both support server-side recording. It is important to monitor or limit the duration of recordings to avoid using up all available hard-drive space on the server or remote storage device. Recording also engages the CPU of the server; you'll want to take this into account when calculating the overall load of an application.
- How does streaming produce a better video experience?
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Flash Media Server can determine the best stream to deliver to a client by testing the available bandwidth. This can happen before streaming even starts with bandwidth detection and during playback with Dynamic Streaming support. Flash Media Server can also closely manage the media buffer on the client to help ensure a quality media experience. When you stream video, you also use memory much more effectively both on the client and on the server.
- Why is streaming better for my network?
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Streaming video through Flash Media Server can support more concurrent high-quality streams per server than progressive download because streaming only serves the portion of the video that's requested.
- What can the embedded HTTP server do?
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By default, Flash Media Server installs an embedded HTTP Server. This allows you to deploy SWF and HTML files from the same computer on which Flash Media Server is installed. You can also deploy JPEG, GIF, and many other file types. The HTTP server can also be used to deliver video and audio content via HTTP if RTMP fails. The Apache server has been preconfigured as an origin server for HTTP Dynamic Streaming, allowing you to deliver video on demand (VOD) or live adaptive bitrate video using the embedded server.
- Can I use multiple network cards with Flash Media Server?
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Yes. Using multiple network cards with Flash Media Server will allow you to combine the total capacity to attain throughput above 1Gbps. The method to do this is called “bonding” in Linux or “teaming” in Windows. Flash Media Server leverages the resources of the hardware available by the server. These techniques are done in the operating system and not with Flash Media Server configuration.
Flash Media Server can also be configured to manage multiple network cards as separate resources. You can provision streaming at the adapter level and bind delivery of specific media or communications on different network cards. With either of these solutions, you will still be limited by the total data center and switch capacity. More information is available on the Flash Media Server blog.
- Why does Flash Media Server use RTMP and not Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP)?
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RTMP enables multidirectional communication from Flash Player to Flash Media Server. This protocol allows the client to control the stream delivery quality and security. RTMP has different modes that include two real-time encryption modes: SSL (RTMPS) and RTMPE. It also allows multi way interactive applications to send data back and forth. RTSP is an insecure, one-way protocol. With RTSP, alternate solutions and workflows are needed to protect your content (such as digital rights management). In addition, multidirectional communication is not possible with RTSP. For multicast delivery, RTMFP is fully encrypted transport over UDP and will operate in the same network configurations as RTSP.
- How can I support multicast over wide area network (WAN) connections?
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You can deliver multicast to multiple offices that are not connected with a multicast-enabled WAN link. This can be done using the multipoint publishing feature, enabling Flash Media Interactive Server or Flash Media Enterprise Server to subscribe to an RTMP stream from the ingest server and rebroadcast in the local area network (LAN). For networks with a multicast-enabled WAN connection, no additional servers are required.
- What is Multicast Ingest?
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Multicast Ingest enables Flash Media Server to consume, record and republish multicast streams to additional multicast networks — or drop down to unicast, HTTP Dynamic Streaming or even HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for Apple devices. This feature supports IP multicast, peer assisted networking and multicast fusion, and allows you to replicate live video more efficiently within your network.
- Does Flash Media Server support live video streaming?
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Yes, all versions of Flash Media Server support live streaming. You can stream directly from Flash Player for powerful, user-generated video or stream high-quality media using the free Flash Media Live Encoder desktop application for Windows or Mac OS. Live streams can be delivered to both Flash-enabled and Apple iOS devices through standard HTTP caching and network infrastructures using the integrated HTTP server as an Origin service in Flash Media Server 4.5.
- Does Flash Media Server support multiple camera angle switching?
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Yes, you can develop solutions that dynamically switch live or prerecorded video streams.
- How does Adobe's P2P support firewall traversal?
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Flash Media Server can negotiate port blocking, either by “tunneling” streams via RTMPT or by automatically defaulting to HTTP delivery if streaming is not permitted by the client's connection. The result is a smooth viewing experience for all clients. For peer-assisted networking, RTMFP has the ability to traverse most firewalls and network address translations (NATs).
- Can I stream to Adobe AIR?
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Yes, you can build compelling desktop apps using Flash Media Server 4.5 and AIR on Desktops, Smartphones, Apple iOS or even Smart TVs. You can create simple desktop video players or video chat applications with real-time file collaboration, voice over IP (VoIP), or even application remote control widgets. A powerful feature of streaming to AIR applications is the ability to download and store video locally and to play back media encrypted with Flash Access.
- Can I stream to Apple devices as well as Flash?
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Yes, Flash Media Server 4.5 enables delivery of adaptive bitrate streams at the same time to Apple iOS. You can stream to the Safari browser using an HTML5 player or an Objective C (“native”) application. You can also use Adobe AIR for IOS to develop a rich video experience on Apple iOS. HLS streams delivered to Apple devices can be protected with AES128 encryption. Both live and on-demand streaming to Apple iOS can use the integrated HTTP Origin.
- Can I stream to Adobe AIR for iOS?
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Yes, you can stream video from Flash Media Server to AIR for iOS with full hardware acceleration support for optimal battery life. Video must be streamed using Apple's HLS format to use the hardware acceleration feature.
- How do I integrate advertising with my video?
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There are many ways to integrate advertising with your video content. If you have a custom player, you can use ActionScript to intersperse ads in any way you like. You can even integrate with an ad server to use its tracking and management features. Easily integrate with third-party ad networks and APIs by utilizing the OSMF plug-in architecture.
Real-time ad insertions or synchronized data cues can also be added to custom video players using the new customizable HTTP packaging APIs in Flash Media Interactive Server 4.5 and Flash Media Enterprise Server 4.5, enhancing the delivery and monetization of video to Flash-enabled devices and Apple devices.
For a list of Adobe partners that can offer assistance in development and content delivery on the Flash Platform, visit the partner page.
- How do I deliver live video?
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The best way to deliver live video is by broadcasting through Flash Media Live Encoder, a free software that allows you to stream and archive video from almost any source, ranging from webcams to high-end capture cards. It supports VP6 or H.264 codecs and connects to Flash Media Server, which then broadcasts your stream to connected clients. Alternatively, you can broadcast directly from Flash Player, which is ideal for videoconferencing. Flash Player 11 now supports higher quality video with H.264 encode. Download Flash Media Live Encoder for MAC and PC: http://www.adobe.com/go/fmle/
- Can I use Dynamic Streaming with live video?
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Yes. Dynamic Streaming supports live video for both RTMP and HTTP streaming. Flash Media Live Encoder 3.2 can be used to create multiple-bitrate encoding.
- I have had trouble with video over RTMP not playing. How can I ensure video will stream?
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Flash Media Server can be configured to work suitably under known network restrictions and to adjust its delivery method accordingly, without playback interruption. This can be achieved either by “tunneling” streams via RTMPT or by using to HTTP Dynamic Streaming if RTMP (or port 1935) streaming is not permitted by the client's connection. The result is a smooth viewing experience for all clients.
- I have existing Windows Media content. Can I stream that to Flash?
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Yes. You will need to convert your Windows Media content to one of the formats supported by Flash Player and Adobe AIR. Numerous third-party providers support such formats.
Content Protection
A distinguishing feature of Flash Media Server is Content Protection options that are relative to many use cases.
- What are the content protection options with Flash Media Server 4.5?
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Option Description Use Case RTMPe Real Time connection 128 bit encryption using the RTMPe protocol General purpose protection to prevent stream ripping. Easy to use and simple workflow with wide player adoption. RTMFP Real Time connection 128 bit encryption using the RTMFP protocol All multicast and p2p delivery is encrypted SWF Verification Player binding to ensure your video plays in the player it is meant for Prevent clone players from replaying your content and prevent circumvention of advertising or analytics. Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming Real Time encryption + SWF Verification with cacheable key delivery for HTTP Streaming Provide protection for HTTP f4f fragments to Flash on the network. Useful for live events, ad supported content or general http delivery. Apple iOS stream protection Real Time encryption + Apple iOS device binding with secure key exchange Provide protection for HTTP ts segments to Apple iOS on the network. Useful for live events, ad supported content or general http delivery. DRM Full DRM rules with additional Adobe Flash Access License Full business rules including revocation, key rotation, individualization – useful for download to own, or rental business models. - How does Flash Media Server protect from stream theft?
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Streaming media using RTMP or RTMFP, including multicast, helps protect your content because media is not cached by the client. Streaming media using HTTP progressive, HTTP Dynamic Streaming or HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) can be cached and requires additional protection measures.
Stream encryption is enabled with RTMPE and RTMFP protocols.
HTTP Dynamic Streaming can be encrypted in real time also using either Flash Access or Protected HTTP Streaming with a simple configuration.
SWF file verification (with RTMP) helps ensure that the video player accessing your video is actually your video player and not a modified or spoofed version of it. SWF file verification is also supported with content protected by Flash Access.
HLS Streaming to Apple devices can use the protected HLS streaming and secure key delivery over SSL.
- How do I implement encryption and SWF file verification to help protect my content?
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Implementing RTMPE is easy — you only need to specify it in your connection string (for example, rtmpe://myFMSserver.com/vod). You can also choose SSL, which requires a certificate. RTMPE does not require a certificate.
To implement SWF verification for RTMP connections, place a copy of the SWF or Adobe AIR® file on Flash Media Server. Easy configuration options, including support inside the C++ plug-ins, help you integrate with your network environment.
To implement SWF verification for Protected HTTP Dynamic Streaming (PHDS), use the “SWFHasher” tool installed with Flash Media Server and place the SWF Hash into the same directory as your video files.
RTMFP used for peer-assisted networking is always encrypted.
- Does Flash Media Server support domain checking?
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Yes, you can use domain whitelists/blacklists to further protect your content from unauthorized access. Multicast streams do not require server connections, so more advanced access controls will be required in the network or at the client.
- What other content protection does Flash Media Server offer?
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Using Flash Media Interactive Server or Flash Media Enterprise Server with server-side ActionScript®, you can verify that the client is authorized to play the video through a variety of metrics, including referrer, domain, IP address, or even Flash Player version. ActionScript can be used to manage requests made to Flash Media Interactive Server or Flash Media Enterprise Server. With all editions, you can protect SWF files from being reused or modified when using RTMP and help prevent unauthorized connections with SWF file verification.
C++ can also be used to manage authorization by creating custom plug-ins for Flash Media Interactive Server or Flash Media Enterprise Server. Plug-ins can be used to closely integrate into your network. You can also leverage databases or user management services such as LDAP using plug-ins. With Flash Media Streaming Server 4.5, you can create C++ access plug-ins (such as the Authentication plug-in for Adobe Flash Media Live Encoder software).
Media packaged with Flash Access protection can also be streamed with all Flash Media Server 4.5 editions.
- Where can I read more about content protection features?
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For more details about these and other methods for protecting your streams, read the security white paper, or find out more about Flash Access protection by visiting the Flash Access product page.
- Is my content safe with Flash Media Server?
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Simply streaming through Flash Media Server using RTMP, multicast, or RTMFP is one easy method to protect your content from download because media cache is deleted after it has been displayed. There are also several features built in to Flash Media Server that help ensure your video is available to a wide audience while still helping to protect the actual video files. Features such as real-time encryption, domain control, and video player verification (SWF file verification) help protect your content. Flash Access protection is also supported with all Flash Media Server 4.5 editions; find out more about Flash Access protection.
- Where can I read more about media content protection in Flash Media Server?
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Adobe has published a white paper that discusses the content protection features available in Flash Media Server in detail. Find out more about Flash Access protection
- I use Windows PlayReady digital rights management (DRM) today. Does Flash Media Server have DRM?
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Yes, DRM is available through Flash Access. Delivery of DRM-protected content is supported in Flash Player and custom AIR applications. Learn more about Flash Access. You can also use your license of Flash Access to apply real-time encryption for live streaming over HTTP Dynamic Streaming.
Media Communication Developer
Flash Media Interactive Server allows developers to create rich media applications that allow people to communicate or to push data from server to client. You can create a media communication experience such as real-time chat or video messaging applications that integrate between applications built on Flash or directly to SIP devices
- Can I develop communication applications for Apple iOS?
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Yes. Using AIR for IOS, you can develop video chat, and voice chat applications that interact with Flash player or AIR clients running on other devices, or desktops. You can use RTMP or RTMFP protocols for communication, and you can use the built-in camera on Apple iOS devices.
- Does Flash Media Server support video chat on mobile devices?
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Yes, Flash Media Server can be used to enable rich video chat applications with Flash Player 10.1 on devices that support camera and microphone. You can build apps to enable communication with desktop players or integrated communication solutions. Video chat is enabled with the multidirectional RTMP or the new peer-assisted networking protocol, RTMFP.
- What servers can I use to develop communication applications?
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Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server can both be used for developing communication applications.
- What protocols support communication?
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Communication protocols supported with Flash Media Server 4.5 include RTMP, RTMFP and SIP. For SIP communication, you will need to install the add on, Flash Media Gateway.
- Where can I find more information on SIP support?
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SIP support is provided using the add on, Flash Media Gateway. You can learn more about Flash Media Gateway, including a dedicated support forum here: http://labs.adobe.com/technologies/flashmedia_gateway/
- Can I stream video from the same server as my interactive application?
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Yes, Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server support both simple streaming and custom interactive applications over multiple protocols simultaneously.
- What do I need to know to build interactive applications?
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If you program for Flash Professional or Flash Build and know ActionScript 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0, getting started with Flash Media Server is easy. You'll use some additional communication classes utilized in both client-side and server-side code in your interactive applications. Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server are the only servers that support ActionScript development on the server side. Explore an extensive list of helpful articles and documentation on the resources page.
- What are some examples of communication applications?
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Interactive applications can range from simple streaming video or audio playlists to full-featured, multi way videoconferencing applications with access control, multiple rooms, text chat, shared whiteboards, and more. Other examples include:
- Video chat applications
- Video messaging applications
- VoIP applications
- Multiplayer games
- Guest books
- Video messaging
- Surveys
- Webcam snapshot sharing
- Stream recording and listing
- Video bug overlays
- Video uploading and sharing
- And much more
Some sample applications, complete with all source code, are available in the Flash Media Server Developer Center. These samples can give you a better idea of what can be done with Flash Media Server and help get you started quickly with your own applications.
For even more inspiration and useful code examples, try the Flash Media Interactive Server Feature Explorer, a cross-platform desktop application built on Adobe AIR. This application hosts more than 30 examples of streaming and multi way communication solutions, including basic server connection examples, complex video streaming, and authentication routines. You can also learn to build video messaging and VoIP solutions.
- How can I learn how to build interactive applications?
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A rich development community and a wide variety of resources are available for getting started with interactive applications. The best place to start is the Flash Media Server Developer Center.
- What is the development environment?
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Flash Media Server applications can be developed just like any other rich media content, using either Adobe Flash Builder™ or Flash Professional CS5.5 software, with the final application being deployed as a SWF file. Server-side code can be written in any text editor or using Flash Builder or Flash Professional. For testing, you can run the free Flash Media Development Server on your local machine or network.
- How can I troubleshoot interactive applications?
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Adobe provides numerous tools and resources to help ensure your streaming and interactive applications are robust. The Flash Media Server administration console lets you monitor your server and is also a server-side debugger. A rich administration API lets you build your own custom unit test applications. The interactive debugger in Flash Professional also helps. In addition, Adobe maintains an up-to-date Knowledgebase on Adobe.com.
- How do I enable data push?
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Data push, a unique and powerful feature of Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server, is enabled using remote shared objects. Remote shared objects can contain complex data that is shared among connected clients. Whenever the data is changed, all connected clients are notified of the change event and the data is automatically updated. This allows you to create rich real-time applications with features such as stock updates, live chat, shared whiteboards, and more. For RTMFP applications, you can use directed routing and posting functions of the peer-to-peer group to send data messages, and enable robust scaling with new distributed peer groups.
- Can I record H.264 streams on the server?
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Yes, Flash Media Interactive Server 3.5 or later supports recording of streams using the H.264 codec, directly on the server. Archive high-quality live streams so you can quickly deploy the content on demand after your live event is over, and use the free F4V flattener utility to prepare your file for video editing using Adobe Premiere Pro CS5. New multicast enhancements in Flash Media Interactive Server and Flash Media Enterprise Server enable server side recording of multicast streams.
