Streaming VS Downloading

Disadvantages of downloading audio

Takes a long time to download, cannot listen to the file until it is fully downloaded.

Disadvantages of downloading video

Takes a long time to download, cannot view until fully downloaded, may need software plug in.

Advantages of streaming video

The file can be played immediately, play it as it downloades, less time required to view file, more use of bandwidth.

Advantages of downloading audio

Complete file is saved on hard drive, can play file as often as required, can fast forward and rewind.

Advantages of downloading video

Complete file saved on hard drive, can play file as often as required, can edit file if required can fast forward and rewind.

Disadvantages of streaming video

Firewalls can prevent streaming, high compression can reduce quality of file, requires good network connection.

Disadvantages of streaming audio

It requires a fast internet connection, cannot fast forward of rewind, some firewalls disallow connection. high compression can reduce quality of file.

Advantages of streaming audio

The user can listen to the file immediately, play the file as it downloads and free-plug ins are available.