Understanding streaming media

Streaming media is a technology for delivering digital media files across a network without waiting for the entire file to download. When you click an Internet link to open a file, the file is partially downloaded and stored in a buffer; this is called buffering. The file then begins to play. As more information in the file is streamed to QuickTime, it continues to buffer information before playing it. QuickTime does this so that if traffic on the Internet interrupts the flow of information, there will be no breaks or interference with the file as it plays. You will notice a break in play when the data in the buffer runs out.

QuickTime alerts you when information is buffering. All streaming QuickTime files buffer before they begin playing. Unlike a downloaded file, data is not saved to the hard disk when streaming files are done playing.

QuickTime also supports intelligent streaming; it monitors network conditions and automatically makes adjustments to ensure the best reception and playback.