Why is it crucial to have redundant network connections for a livestream broadcast?

It is crucial to have redundant network connections for a livestream broadcast to ensure uninterrupted streaming in the event of a primary network failure. A reliable network connection is essential for transmitting the video and audio signal from the encoder to the streaming platform. If the primary network connection fails due to technical issues, such as a cable disconnection, router malfunction, or internet service provider outage, the livestream will be interrupted, resulting in a negative viewing experience. Redundant network connections provide a backup path for the data transmission, allowing the stream to continue seamlessly even if the primary connection goes down. This typically involves having two or more separate internet connections from different providers or using different network technologies (e.g., Ethernet and cellular). A network bonding solution or a dual-encoder setup with automatic failover can then be used to switch to the backup connection automatically in case of a failure. For example, if the primary Ethernet connection fails, the system will automatically switch to the backup cellular connection, minimizing any disruption to the livestream. This redundancy is critical for professional livestreams where reliability and continuity are paramount.