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Stream processing

Stream processing page

Incoming streams in Agora usually need transcoding for correct playback on all target devices. Corporate TV sources vary widely in codec, bitrate, resolution, and structure; Agora prepares them for stable delivery over the enterprise network to typical clients.

This section configures the stream transcoder.

Why processing matters

With processing configured, Agora can:

  • accept heterogeneous sources;
  • normalize the input to a predictable format;
  • ensure compatibility with client devices;
  • cap and stabilize bitrate for corporate network delivery;
  • prepare the stream for single-bitrate or multi-bitrate publication.

This is especially important in corporate TV, where the same service may combine:

  • studio sources;
  • HDMI / SDI hardware inputs;
  • network publications;
  • remote IP sources.

The transcoder makes these streams suitable for reliable delivery and playback on devices used in the organization.

Why stream processing is needed

Transcoding is used to:

Enabling and disabling the transcoder

On the processing tab the operator can:

  • enable the transcoder;
  • disable the transcoder;
  • change parameters for an enabled transcoder.

When enabled, Agora creates a baseline configuration by default:

  • one audio track;
  • one video track.

This matches typical single-bitrate delivery.

Audio track

For the audio track the current UI lets you set:

  • codec;
  • bitrate.

Audio codec options:

  • AAC;
  • Opus.

Video tracks

For each video track you can configure:

  • codec;
  • bitrate;
  • encoding preset;
  • width;
  • height.

Supported video codecs:

  • H.264;
  • H.265;
  • AV1.

Single-bitrate and multi-bitrate delivery

By default Agora uses single-bitrate delivery: one output profile.

For multi-bitrate delivery, add several video tracks with different parameters:

  • different bitrate;
  • different resolution;
  • different encoding presets if needed.

One input can thus become several outputs for different network conditions and devices.

Bitrate behavior

By default Agora targets near-CBR over a 1 second window. That helps corporate networks because it makes bandwidth planning more predictable.

It helps you:

  • estimate required capacity;
  • reduce short overload spikes;
  • simplify delivery planning inside the enterprise.

GOP

Global transcoder settings include GOP.

GOP affects the stream as follows:

  • larger gop size tends to reduce bitrate at similar visual quality;
  • larger GOP increases playback latency vs. real time;
  • startup delay also increases.

For LAN corporate use, a GOP around 2 seconds is a practical default.