The length of time a stream key lasts can vary depending on the platform or service you are using to broadcast your live stream. In general, a stream key is a unique code that is generated by the platform and is used to connect your streaming software or device to the platform’s servers. It allows you to broadcast your live video feed to the platform’s audience.
Some platforms provide temporary stream keys that are only valid for a single streaming session. These stream keys typically expire once your live stream has ended and cannot be used again for future streams. This means that each time you want to start a new live stream, you will need to generate a new stream key.
However, there are also platforms that offer persistent stream keys that can be used multiple times. These stream keys do not expire after a single streaming session and can be reused for future live streams. With a persistent stream key, you can start and stop your live streams without needing to generate a new key each time.
The advantage of a persistent stream key is that it provides convenience and flexibility for content creators who frequently live stream. You can use the same stream key for your regular live shows or broadcasts, making it easier to embed your live stream on a website, share the stream link with your audience, or schedule future streams in advance.
I have personally used platforms that offer persistent stream keys, such as YouTube Live and Twitch. These platforms allow me to reuse the same stream key for my live streams, which saves time and effort in generating new keys for each session. Additionally, I can embed my live stream on my website and provide a consistent streaming experience for my audience.
It’s important to note that while a persistent stream key can be used multiple times, you can only broadcast one live video at a time with that key. If you want to stream multiple videos simultaneously, you will need to generate separate stream keys for each video.
The duration of a stream key depends on the platform or service you are using. Temporary stream keys expire after a single streaming session, while persistent stream keys can be used multiple times. Persistent stream keys offer convenience and flexibility for content creators who frequently live stream, allowing them to reuse the same key for future broadcasts.