Question / Help Buying a server to stream from

[Reesebiz]

Does anyone know how if it's possible to buy a Windows server and set up OBS to stream from it 24/7? I'm asking this because I have an automated program I would like to stream but doing it from home would use too much bandwidth.

 

[FerretBomb]

Should be, yes. Be aware, livestreaming uses a lot of CPU and bandwidth. Might be other means to get what you're looking for, without the extra overhead. What program are you planning to stream, and why do you need a livestream of it?

 

[Reesebiz]

I'm planning on streaming the game osu! The game will play itself automatically and I was hoping to leave it running 24/7. It will be similar to SaltyBetif you ever heard of it.

You're also the same guy who helped me the last time I came here good to see you again haha

 

[R1CH]

Keep in mind if you rent a server it will need a GPU capable of running the game and OBS. Most cheaper providers will be using VM solutions which will not work with OBS. Be prepared to spend $80+ per month.

 

[Reesebiz]

Keep in mind if you rent a server it will need a GPU capable of running the game and OBS. Most cheaper providers will be using VM solutions which will not work with OBS. Be prepared to spend $80+ per month.

Ouch that's rough. I think it's also possible for me to run this project on Linux. Is OBS Multiplatform also graphically intensive?

 

[FerretBomb]

It has GPU requirements there that are similar to the Windows side, still won't allow the use of a VM, and will still need a lot of CPU and bandwidth. The host OS is less relevant, as the Linux version of OBS can't be run headless; even if it could, you'd still need an X session to show the Osu! window and capture it.

I'd say that $80/mo would be on the cheaper side for a dedicated non-virtual server with the necessary GPU, plus a beefy CPU, plus the (significant) bandwidth fees to run a stream 24/7. Unless you're looking at an unmetered rate quarter rack and providing your own server hardware, which will end up well into three, if not four digits per month, depending on the rate at your local DC/NOC.

Now I'm tempted to see if I can get OBS-MP running on a PowerEdge 2950 under CentOS or Debian. I doubt the built-in video card will be able to swing it, though.