HLS stands for HTTP Live Streaming, which is a protocol for streaming video and audio over the internet. It was developed by Apple and is widely used by streaming services to deliver live and on-demand video content.
HLS uses the HTTP protocol, which allows it to be delivered through firewalls and other network restrictions.
In live streaming, HLS is used to break the live video feed into small chunks and create a playlist. The player will then request the chunks in the playlist and play them in order, allowing the viewer to watch the live video in real-time.
One of the main advantages of HLS is that it can adapt to different network conditions. This allows the viewer to watch the live video even if their internet connection is not stable. For example, if the viewer's internet connection slows down, the player will request a lower-quality version of the video, ensuring that the video continues to play smoothly.
Many streaming services and platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Live, and Vimeo use HLS for live streaming. It's also supported by most of the modern web browsers and mobile devices making it a widely adopted standard for live streaming.