FLV (Flash Video)
Quick look-up table
| FLV | |
|---|---|
| Type of streaming | Pseudo streaming |
| Development State | No longer maintained |
| Expected Latency | < 5s |
| Connection type | HTTP |
| Container type | Flash Video |
| Where | Flash players |
| Default Port | 8080, 443 |
| Modern codecs | H264, AAC |
| Difficulty of read | Beginner |
| Notes | * |
What do I need to know about FLV?
FLV stands for Flash Video. It's the container format for Flash Video, which is used by all Flash Players. Flash itself is no longer supported in any modern browser so you will most likely no longer encounter this protocol.
When would you use FLV?
When you really need to
The only reason why you would encounter FLV is because you have very old media in this container format. At that point you will most likely want to convert it to another video format which you can easily do with MistServer. A Javascript based FLV player is included in the MistServer Meta-Player, though it is more as a nod towards an old friend no longer in use than a serious playback option.
Important need to know about FLV
- The format itself does not support seeking
- There once was a time where this was actually the dominant media container for internet streaming. When browsers implemented the video tag in 2011 it was rapidly overtaken by MP4 and Matroska.
Advantages of FLV
- It is the only way to play Flash Video
- It will work in ancient browsers
Disadvantages of FLV
- It uses Flash, which is no longer supported in modern browsers
- It cannot contain more modern codecs than H264
Want to move away from FLV?
Got some FLV files that you want to stream or convert properly to more modern formats? Contact us and learn how we can help. Or simply download MistServer and try out the Javascript player because you have a sudden need to look at an FLV stream.