Which protocol does Akamai utilize for real-time streaming?

Akamai utilizes HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for real-time streaming, which is significant for several reasons. HLS is an adaptive bitrate streaming protocol developed by Apple, widely supported across various devices and platforms, making it a robust choice for delivering content efficiently. This protocol allows for smooth streaming experiences by adjusting the quality of the video stream based on the user’s network conditions. It breaks the stream into small segments, which enables quick starts and fast adaptability to changing network conditions.

HLS is also advantageous because it can leverage existing HTTP infrastructure, making it easier to deploy across Akamai's extensive CDN (Content Delivery Network). This means that users experience reduced buffering and enhanced replay options, which are critical for live streaming scenarios where real-time user engagement is essential. By utilizing HLS, Akamai can offer a scalable and reliable solution for delivering live content to a large audience, ensuring a consistent viewing experience across devices.

In contrast, while RTMP, WebRTC, and MPEG-DASH each offer unique capabilities in streaming, they are either less widely adopted or may not provide the same level of adaptability and compatibility across diverse devices as HLS does.