Real-time Transport Control Protocol definition
The Real-time Transport Control Protocol is a networking protocol. It works alongside the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) that handles the delivery of audio and video over the internet. Meanwhile, RTCP manages these audio and video streams.
See also: session layer
Where is the Real-time Transport Control Protocol used?
- Video conferencing and live streaming. In video conferencing applications, RTCP monitors the quality of audio and video streams. The feedback helps adjust the bitrate and resolve synchronization issues.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The protocol provides metrics like packet loss and jitter for smooth voice communication.
- Online gaming. RTCP helps in multiplayer online gaming, especially those with voice chat features.
Types of RTCP packets
- Sender Report (SR). These packets come from the primary source of the stream. They contain details like how much data has been sent, timestamps, and the number of packets.
- Receiver Report (RR). Sent by the devices receiving the stream. These packets provide feedback about how the stream is being received.
- Source Description (SDES). These packets contain information about the participants in the streaming session.
- Goodbye (BYE). These packets signal that a user is leaving the session.
- Application-Specific (APP). Packets that let developers add extra features unique to their applications.
