- Streaming refers to the fact that the data being streamed is compressed and being sent across the Internet.

- The data, be it audio, video, or something else, is transmitted continuously which is why they call it a "stream."

- The user has to use appropriate software to accept the stream, decompress it, and enjoy it.

- Most programs that handle "streaming" utilize a "buffer" to build up a reserve of the content.

- For example, a program playing streaming music will sometimes show the word "buffering", which means it's stockpiling the next parts of the music so you hear it continuously.

- The program or part of the program that does the compression and decompression is called a "codec."

- When you use something like video conferencing, the conference is "streaming" to the other parties.