What does Streaming Video refer to?

Streaming video refers to a method of delivering video content over the internet where playback begins as the video is being received rather than after it is fully downloaded. This approach allows viewers to watch the content in real-time or near real-time, much like a live broadcast. The experience can vary depending on the available bandwidth; a higher bandwidth generally leads to better quality and fewer interruptions, while lower bandwidth may result in buffering or lower quality playback. This dynamic nature of streaming is what distinguishes it from other types of video delivery, such as those that require complete downloads before viewing or are pre-recorded and played back without interactivity.