What is Peer-to-Peer?

Peer-to-peer describes a technology that can establish computer-to-computer connections in real-time. In streaming, it is used to regulate data flows and provide relief for stressed servers and bandwidth.

How does a Peer-to-Peer network work?

P2P networks enable viewers and their devices to share data with each other so that not everyone needs a connection to the origin server anymore. Instead, only a few do, and the risk of network congestion, problems with the streaming quality, or buffering times can be highly reduced. A mesh of connected peers arises who can share video content in real-time.

When are P2P connections useful?

P2P solutions can be used whenever a stream has enough viewers worldwide or at least enough viewers in a close geographic localization. A P2P software generates clusters of viewers, who can share the data with each other. Therefore, they need to use the same ISP, browser, etc. The more people are joining a stream, the higher is the probability that some of them fit the conditions for sharing.

Peer-to-Peer Streaming for companies

Many eCDN providers use P2P technology to create a stable, high-quality stream inside corporate networks. The advantages are obvious: P2P is a software solution that doesn’t need any hardware or installation of local clients. Instead, it works completely inside of the browser, as long it is reasonably up-to-date (Internet Explorer is not supported). If you like to learn more about how P2P CDN technology, you can get your free datasheet here.