How to Stream Videos Using VLC Media Player

Streaming video content with VLC Media Player is a powerful way to share media across your network. Here's an easy to follow guide to get you started.

 

Download and install VLC Media Player. Launch the application once installed.
 

Step 1: Start the Streaming Wizard

Go to the "Media" menu.
Select "Stream..." or use the shortcut Ctrl+S.

 

Step 2: Choose a Media File

In the Open Media dialog, click "Add..." to select the media file you want to stream.
After selecting your file, click "Stream" at the bottom.

Step 3: Set Up the Stream

In the Stream Output dialog, click "Next".
Confirm the source file and click "Next" again.

 

Step 4: Configure Stream Output

Choose a destination for your stream by clicking "Add".

Select the desired output method:
HTTP: For streaming over the web.
RTSP: For real-time streaming.
UDP: For network streaming.
File: To save the stream to a file.

Set Destination Parameters:
For HTTP: Enter a path, e.g., /stream.
For RTSP: Enter the path, e.g., rtsp://localhost:8554/stream.
For UDP: Enter the destination IP and port.

Click "Next" once you've configured the destination.

 

Step 5: Transcoding Options (Optional)

Check "Activate Transcoding" if you need to convert the media format.
Select the desired profile (e.g., Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4)).
Click "Next".

Step 6: Stream Settings Summary

Review your settings in the summary.
Click "Stream" to start the streaming process.

Step 7: Accessing the Stream

To view the stream on another device, open VLC Media Player on that device.
Go to "Media" > "Open Network Stream".
Enter the stream URL, e.g., http://your-ip-address:8080/stream.

Troubleshooting

Firewall Issues: Ensure your firewall allows VLC through the designated port.
Network Configuration: Make sure the streaming source and destination are correctly configured.

Streaming with VLC is straightforward and customizable for various network setups. Use this guide to start streaming your media effortlessly.

For more detailed configurations and advanced options, refer to the VLC Streaming Documentation.