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Streaming protocols and proxy settings

Specify the protocols and ports that Windows Media Player can use to receive a stream and how each protocol operates with a proxy server.

Option Description
Streaming protocols
  • Multicast
  • UDP
  • TCP
  • HTTP
The Player receives streams through the User Datagram Protocol (UDP), the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), and the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). It can also receive a multicast stream.

By default, all streaming protocol options are selected, so that a Windows Media server can establish the optimal connection to the Player, depending upon its environment. Because the Player can receive files by using a variety of protocols, it is recommended that you select all protocols.

Note Image Note

  • UDP and TCP are basic networking protocols that are used in combination with the Microsoft Media Server (MMS) and Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) protocols, which manage the high-level exchange of data. If you clear the TCP check box, or if your firewall blocks streams that use this protocol, and the Player is configured to use either the MMS or RTSP protocols, the Player will try to receive files by using the UDP protocol. If you clear the TCP and UDP check boxes, or if your firewall blocks streams that use these protocols, and the Player is configured to use either the MMS or RTSP protocols, the Player will try to receive files by using the HTTP protocol. For more information, see Configuring protocols.
Use ports <port number> to receive data If you specify that the Player receive streams by using UDP, enter the range of UDP ports that the Player can use. Consult with your network or firewall administrator to establish the specific port range that allows streaming content to pass by using UDP.
Configure Select a protocol in the list (HTTP, MMS, or RTSP), and then click the Configure button to change the proxy settings of the selected protocol. For more information, see Configuring protocols.

Note Image Note

  • If your network is behind a firewall, and you do not know how to configure your settings, consult with your network or firewall administrator.

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