RTMP Streaming Without Flash: Why the Real-Time Messaging Protocol Still Matters

The Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP), developed by Macromedia in the 1990s, became a foundational standard for multimedia streaming, despite the decline of Flash Player support and the rise of newer protocols like HLS and MPEG-DASH. RTMP still plays a crucial role in the initial stages of streaming, especially in transmitting content from source to server, known as the ingest stage, though it is less secure and efficient for last-mile content delivery to users. Its open specification has allowed for various adaptations, including secure versions like RTMPS and RTMPE. Modern alternatives like Apple's HLS and MPEG-DASH offer decreased latency and improved security for client-side delivery. As streaming technology evolves, protocols such as SRT and WebRTC are emerging as potential replacements for RTMP in the ingest process. Despite technological advancements, the concepts and architecture established by RTMP remain integral to developing synchronized audio, video, and data delivery systems, including interactive features like livestream chat to enhance user engagement.