Selecting the publishing point type

Specify which type of publishing point you want the wizard to create. Windows Media Services uses two different types of publishing points to distribute audio and video content to users. You should select a publishing point type based on the playback scenario you are trying to create for your users. Use the following information to help you make your choice:

  • Broadcast publishing point. Click this option to distribute the content as a synchronized stream controlled by your server. Users that receive this content cannot modify its playback by pausing, rewinding, or fast-forwarding the stream. This type of publishing point is commonly used when the content originates from an encoder, such as for live presentations and radio broadcasts.

  • On-demand publishing point. Click this option to distribute the content only when it is requested by a client. Users that receive this content might be able to modify its playback by pausing, rewinding, or fast-forwarding the stream. This type of publishing point is commonly used when the content originates from a file, such as a playlist or other Windows Media file, and can be used for personalized radio stations, online video stores, and self-paced training applications. On-demand publishing points always deliver their content as a unicast stream.

Note

Broadcast publishing points can deliver their content either as a unicast or a multicast stream. You will choose delivery options for broadcast publishing points later in the wizard. For more information, see Choosing delivery options for broadcast publishing points.