Streaming tips

The total bitrate that you're streaming cannot exceed the amount of upload bandwidth available. Leave a bit of room (20% recommended).
Your office may have a high speed connection, but if many people are sharing that network, your individual connection may be limited.
Run a speed test. Inbound bandwidth (download speed) is often greater than outbound (upload). Make sure that your outbound connection is enough to send your stream bitrate. Primary + Backup + 20% is recommended.
Make sure that you are on a reliable network. A disruption on your connectivity means a broken stream.

Set up encoders for a live stream at least two hours in advance.
Start encoders at least 15 minutes before the event is scheduled to start.
Before clicking Start Streaming, check the preview in the Live Control Room.
For test encoder failover, stop the primary encoder (or unplug its Ethernet cable) and make sure that the player rolls over to the backup encoder.
Verify the integrity of all local archive files. Check that the file size of the local archive is growing.
Verify that the event is accessible via channel and watch pages.
Verify that the event is accessible via mobile devices.
Continuously monitor streams for audio and video quality.
After your event has stopped on YouTube, stop the encoder.

You can stream with a laptop and webcam, but better equipment results in better live stream quality.
You can use a software encoding program like Wirecast or www.youtube.com/webcam.
For higher-production-value events, we recommend professional-grade hardware encoders.
Make sure that you thoroughly test your setup before your event.

Content: Know what type of videos to stream. When filming videos of your friends, classmates or teens, remember that they should never be sexually suggestive, violent or dangerous. Note that this rule also applies to live chat. Learn more about our Community Guidelines.
Personal info: Be cautious about sharing any personal info during your live stream and in live chat. Admin access for your channel should only be given to people you trust. YouTube will not ask you for moderation privileges in the stream.
Control: Report inappropriate videos or block users from the chat who make you or others feel uncomfortable. Learn more about managing live chat.
Privacy: YouTube has features to help you limit who can see the live streams that you post. Protect your privacy by setting personal live streams to 'private' or 'unlisted'. Use the Privacy and safety settings page to explore the tools available to help you manage your experience on the site.

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