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LiveKit

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description LiveKit Overview

LiveKit is an open-source real-time communication platform built upon the WebRTC framework. Launched in 2020, it provides developers with scalable video and audio streaming infrastructure using a Selective Forwarding Unit (SFU) architecture. The platform offers client-side SDKs for web, mobile, and gaming platforms, enabling the integration of live broadcasting and video conferencing into third-party applications. LiveKit is utilized by software developers who need programmable, low-latency media routing without building the underlying WebRTC scaling layers from scratch.

help LiveKit FAQ

What is LiveKit used for?

LiveKit is an open-source real-time communication platform for building video calls, voice rooms, live broadcasts, and interactive media features. Its server is built on WebRTC and uses a Selective Forwarding Unit, or SFU, architecture. [LiveKit](https://docs.livekit.io/intro/about/)

How is LiveKit different from a peer-to-peer WebRTC call?

In a peer-to-peer call, each participant sends media directly to the others, which becomes inefficient as the room grows. LiveKit uses an SFU so a participant uploads one stream to the server while the server forwards selected tracks to subscribers.

Can LiveKit be self-hosted instead of using LiveKit Cloud?

Yes, LiveKit Server can run on infrastructure controlled by the developer, while LiveKit Cloud provides a managed option. The server is written in Go, and Redis is required when a deployment is distributed across multiple nodes.

Can a browser application connect to LiveKit?

Yes, LiveKit provides client SDKs that let a browser application join a room and publish or subscribe to WebRTC audio and video tracks. The application still needs a backend or token service to authorize room access.

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