Challenges and Protocols in Video Streaming over Networks: A Comparative Study of HTTP ABR, RTSP, RTMP, and CDNs

The rapid expansion of video traffic over IP networks has necessitated robust streaming protocols that can operate efficiently across heterogeneous environments. This paper presents a comprehensive comparative evaluation of four key video streaming technologies—HTTP Adaptive Bitrate (DASH), Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP+RTP), Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP/RTMFP), and CDN-integrated peer-assisted networks. Using a 105-GB network trace and emulated testbed covering 4G/5G/Wi-Fi, we assess these protocols on startup delay, stall ratio, energy efficiency, and throughput adaptation. Our results show DASH achieves 37% lower stall ratio under jitter, while RTMFP yields 21% lower startup delay via peer offloading. We discuss design trade-offs, scalability constraints, and deployment implications, providing insights for selecting protocols suited to varying QoS demands and device constraints.