Understanding SRT in AWS Elemental Live
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Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) is an open-source video transport protocol developed by Haivision that enhances video streaming performance. This protocol connects two endpoints to deliver low-latency video, effectively handling unreliable networks. SRT is designed to provide high-quality video despite minor network disruptions, making it ideal for scenarios such as live streaming from venues with limited connectivity.
SRT combats issues like jitter, packet loss, and bandwidth fluctuations, ensuring viewers receive the best possible video experience. Its low-latency capability is configurable, allowing users to optimize for both latency and reliability. SRT is particularly beneficial for those transmitting video over lossy networks, like streaming from a concert hall. With its end-to-end AES encryption options (128, 192, or 256 bits), SRT guarantees the security of content during transmission.
SRT Inputs in AWS Elemental Live 2.21.1 and Beyond
Starting with version 2.21.1, AWS Elemental Live supports SRT as a live input. In this configuration, AWS Elemental Live acts as the “caller,” initiating the connection with the remote stream. The caller establishes a handshake with the listener (the remote source) over the designated port using bidirectional UDP traffic. Ensure that the specified port is open for both incoming and outgoing UDP traffic on firewalls at both ends. The remote stream must be in “listener” mode, similar to how an RTMP Pull endpoint operates.
To set up an SRT workflow in AWS Elemental Live, follow these steps:
- From the AWS Elemental Live interface, select “Create a new Event.”
- In the input drop-down menu, choose “Secure Reliable Transport.”
- Enter the network location (required), starting with
srt://and including the port (e.g.,srt://192.168.10.21:5000). - (Optional) Specify the Ethernet interface for receiving the SRT stream, such as
eth1. If not specified, the system routing table will determine the interface. - (Optional) Define a latency value. If none is provided, the default is 120 milliseconds, with valid ranges from 120 to 15000 milliseconds. This latency facilitates packet recovery and aligns closely with the sender’s timing.
- (Optional) Indicate an encryption key length and passphrase. If encryption is selected, a passphrase is required, which must be between 10 and 72 characters.
- (Optional) Provide a stream ID, which can be up to 512 characters long and must match between the sender and receiver.
Getting Started with SRT
We hope this guide simplifies the process of setting up SRT for your video workflows. Utilizing SRT introduces minimal latency while enabling packet recovery even in less-than-ideal network conditions. Secure SRT streams can be established through encryption, and since it’s open-source, no extra licensing fees are required.
If you have any questions or feedback, or if you’re interested in joining discussions with fellow community members, consider visiting the AWS Developer Forums: Media Services. You might also find useful insights on the use of drones in HR from SHRM to broaden your understanding of emerging technologies. For a more visual learning experience, check out this YouTube video which serves as an excellent resource.