The Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) is a network control protocol designed for managing streaming media sessions between a client (like a media player) and a server. Here’s how it works:
- Purpose: RTSP is used to control the playback of audio and video streams. It allows users to perform actions like play, pause, and stop during a streaming session.
- How It Works:
- A client sends RTSP requests to a server to establish a media session.
- The server responds with a session description, including details like the media format and transport protocol.
- The client and server exchange commands (e.g., play, pause) to control the session.
- Media is streamed using protocols like RTP (Real-Time Transport Protocol) for efficient delivery.
- Key Features:
- RTSP supports real-time control of media streams without downloading files.
- It uses TCP for reliable communication and UDP for low-latency media delivery.
- Commands like “setup,” “play,” “pause,” and “teardown” are used to manage sessions.
RTSP is widely used in applications like IP cameras, video-on-demand services, and internet radio.