Streaming Architecture
Video Encoding
Reviewed by Rishabh Jain · OTT & StreamingLast updated: 2026-06-30
Encoding compresses raw video into a digital format using a codec, so it can be stored and streamed efficiently. It's the first processing step that turns a camera or master source into deliverable, compressed video.
Enveu take
Encoding is the quality-vs-bitrate bargain at the root of the pipeline — the codec and settings you pick here cap both how good the stream looks and how much it costs to deliver.
CodecProcessingDelivery
Automate it with FlowAutomate encoding in a Flow pipeline — media workflow automation, no custom code
Where it fits in the OTT stack
Raw Source→Encoder (Codec)→Compressed Video→Packager
How it works
- A raw or master video enters the encoder.
- A codec (H.264, H.265, AV1) compresses it to a target bitrate.
- The encoder outputs one or more compressed renditions.
- Packaging and delivery follow for adaptive streaming.
Key components
- Codec choice (H.264/H.265/AV1)
- Bitrate and rate-control settings
- Resolution and frame rate
- Encoder (software or hardware)
Performance impact
- Defines baseline quality and file size
- Newer codecs cut bitrate at equal quality
- Compute cost rises with newer codecs
Common issues
- Over-compression causing visible artifacts
- Codec not supported on target devices
- Slow encodes delaying publishing
When it applies
- Required before any video can be streamed or stored
Signals to monitor
- Bitrate vs perceived quality
- Encode time
- Device codec support
Real-world example
Cutting bitrate with a newer codec
A platform's H.264 streams were bandwidth-heavy.
Challenge
- High bitrate for acceptable quality
- CDN egress costs climbing
Action taken
- Added H.265/AV1 encodes for capable devices
- Kept H.264 as a fallback
Outcome
Bandwidth dropped at equal quality on modern devices while older devices still played.
Frequently asked questions
What is video encoding?
Encoding compresses raw video into a digital format using a codec so it can be stored and streamed efficiently — the first processing step after capture.
What's the difference between encoding and transcoding?
Encoding compresses raw source video the first time; transcoding converts an already-encoded file into other formats, resolutions, or bitrates. The terms overlap in streaming pipelines.
Which codec should I use for streaming?
H.264 for maximum device compatibility, H.265 (HEVC) or AV1 to cut bitrate at equal quality on modern devices — usually offered alongside an H.264 fallback.
What is a bitrate ladder in encoding?
A bitrate ladder is the set of resolution/bitrate renditions you produce for each asset so adaptive streaming can switch among them. A good, ideally per-title ladder balances quality against bandwidth cost across the range of viewer connections.
What's the difference between CBR and VBR encoding?
CBR (constant bitrate) holds a steady data rate, predictable for live and bandwidth planning; VBR (variable bitrate) allocates more bits to complex scenes for better quality per byte, which suits VOD. Capped VBR is a common middle ground.
Build it with Enveu
Encode and stream efficiently
Enveu's pipeline encodes to the right codecs and ABR ladder and delivers adaptively across devices.