Streaming is a method of delivering audio and video files across a network or the Internet without downloading an entire file before it plays. When a streamed file finishes playing, it is not stored on your computer. Its not needed separate audio video player for streamed file. When you play a streaming media file, the file is partially downloaded and stored in a buffer memory and user cannot access buffer memory. Before it begins to play; this process is called buffering.



As more information in the file is streamed to media player, the Player continues to buffer the information. If traffic on the Internet interrupts the flow of information, buffering may enable the file to play back with fewer breaks or interference. When streaming a file, the Player monitors network conditions and automatically makes adjustments to ensure the best reception and playback. If the information in the buffer runs out, there will be a break in playback. The status bar at the bottom line of the player provides play/pause, full screen, volume menus and alerts when information is buffering. When you play streaming media content, you can view statistics and information about the quality of the connection and the playback performance. The information in the Statistics dialog box can help you determine whether you are receiving a high quality data transmission.

Digital media content that plays as it is streamed to your computer is known as streaming media. Digital media content that is stored on your computer (or a shared network drive) when you play it is known as local media. Local media can be downloaded to your computer from a server on the Internet. There are two download methods: traditional and progressive. When a file downloads traditionally, the entire file must be copied to your computer before you can play it. When a file downloads progressively, you can begin to play the file before it is completely copied to your computer. In both cases, the files are stored on your computer.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both streaming and local media content. Streaming media does not take up any permanent disk space on your computer, but you must be connected to the Internet to play it. You can play local media without being connected to the Internet, but it can take up a lot of disk space on your computer. All streaming media files buffer before playing. Buffering is the process of sending a certain amount of information from server to the computer, before the content actually plays.