Live-streaming has become increasingly popular in many different industries. Now more than ever, professionals are using online video content. This has made live streaming solutions a key resource in businesses.
It’s used in sales, marketing, corporate communications, business development, and beyond. A professional live streaming platform is likely to remain a necessity in all working environments. This is because we are transitioning to primarily working from home.
The growing need for live streaming solutions (also including OTT and IPTV solutions) has made it vital to understand crucial functionality. Considering various features on a platform is essential before you begin using it. We have outlined elements you should consider before you begin hosting internal company meetings. Continue reading to find out more.
What Is a Private Live Stream?
Although some broadcasters might reach larger audiences, this isn’t always the case. Many broadcasters wish to conduct live streams privately.
Therefore, a private live streaming event is a broadcast meant for only an authorized group of people. Access isn’t granted to the general public.
Some examples of a private live stream include paid virtual events, internal company meetings, or private streams with family or friends. Live streams are useful for all business types. With IPTV broadcast software, you can stream training sessions, conferences, and webinars.
Video content being private or public is determined by the broadcaster. In most instances, private video streaming is intended for internal use. In contrast, public streaming goes beyond a company’s audience or authorized viewers.
However, the security of these private streaming videos can become compromised. That’s why broadcasters should consider some vital elements before conducting a private live stream. We’ve highlighted some of the most crucial features to ensure your audience consists of authorized users only.
What Is the Best Method of Privately Live Streaming an Event?
The most effective way to privately live-stream corporate events is with professional IPTV broadcast software. This professional live streaming platform should be equipped with the tools you require to reach your specific objectives.
One instance of this would be if you’re hosting a paid streaming event. You should need monetization features. On the other hand, this monetization isn’t necessary if you’re self-hosting a private stream.
When streaming at a professional level, you might want branding customization. You also may wish to eliminate any third-party logos or ads. Selecting a streaming platform with an HTML5 white-label video can align with this brand customization. Additionally, an HTML5 video player is compatible with almost all internet-enabled devices. This helps maximize your viewership.
Other valuable features you should consider are:
- Video galleries
- Easy-to-use content management system
- Reliable content streaming through a global video CDN
- Video and player API
- 24/7 customer support services
What Features Should You Consider?
As we have previously mentioned, broadcasting any private streams at a professional level requires varied features. These elements are dependent on the broadcaster’s specific preferences.
Nonetheless, there are some universal features when it comes to video privacy and security. These essential features for professional content streaming include referrer and geographical restrictions, password protection, and payment security. Let’s take a deeper dive into each of these elements.
Password Protection
Password protection is the most basic form of security. It’s considered the ‘first line of defense’ when conducting private live streaming. This feature allows you, the broadcaster, to set a password.
Any viewers attempting to access this video content need to enter such a password. Without this passcode, users can’t gain access. This privacy measure is ideal if you plan to host smaller events with trusted groups or individuals.
Luckily, most live IPTV encoder streaming solutions are equipped with password-protected features.
Referrer and Geographic Restrictions
These restriction features allow broadcasters to select who can access their content. You can also set these restrictions based on an array of factors. Two of the most common types of restrictions are referrer and geographic.
Geographic restrictions enable you to control who can access your online stream through an IP address. Unless a person is using a VPN, this IP address corresponds to a geographic location.
A geographical restriction works by ‘whitelisting’ countries where your audience can access this video content. By offering these restrictions, you can bypass unauthorized viewers and hackers located in other countries.
Another restriction is a referrer. This describes the website a visitor previously came from when accessing your streaming content. You can grant access to viewers who came from pages on your domain.
Referrer restrictions are beneficial for various reasons. It prevents users from illegally embedding your stream to an alternative site. In instances where the embed works, this video won’t play. Therefore, such restrictions help combat piracy.
Payment Security
One method of keeping content secure is by making individuals pay to become authorized viewers. This also offers a revenue stream for your live broadcasting. However, when monetization is included, payment security becomes vital. Thankfully, online payment systems have become more robust.
An example is that a tokenized security system can support specific authorization schemes. Thereby, preventing anyone without prior authorization from gaining access to your private stream. Additionally, you should ensure your live streaming platform is equipped with SSL encryption. This safely gathers payment information.
Wrapping It Up
Privacy and security features are the most important elements when hosting streams at a professional level. These features allow you to control who has access to your private streams. Moreover, these features are what make private streams possible. That’s why your IPTV broadcast software should be equipped with these content security features.