What is Upstream?

Upstream is a cloud‑based, 24/7 live streaming tool. It is the easiest way to stream to YouTube, Twitch, Kick – or any other streaming or social media platform / RTMP destination – around the clock, using pre‑recorded video and audio. You don’t need any specialist skills in video editing, graphic design or server management – everything technical is handled for you through our intuitive stream builder software.

Can I turn off my computer / device while streaming live?

Yes, you can turn off your computer after starting a stream. Upstream is web-based. You can set up a stream in minutes, close your browser, turn off your computer, and the stream will be streaming, until you decide to stop it (manually, or by scheduling).

How do I get started with 24/7 live streaming?

Simply click Create Stream in your dashboard. Upload a pre‑recorded video or GIF, choose optional background music and sound effects, and go live. When your video or audio reaches the end, we automatically loop it to keep your stream running continuously until you decide to stop.

Do I have to be a streamer to use Upstream?

No. Upstream is designed for anyone who wants to stream 24/7 and reach a wider audience – content creators, gamers, businesses, brands, non‑profits, schools or hobbyists. If you want a 24/7 YouTube Livestream, Upstream makes it simple to stream your existing videos continuously.

How tech savvy do I have to be to use Upstream?

No technical expertise is required. Our platform takes care of servers, video encoding and other behind‑the‑scenes processes. You control your stream through an easy interface and can build a professional‑looking broadcast without any experience in editing or design.

What’s the difference between a live stream and a regular video?

A regular video is recorded and then uploaded as a fixed file. Once it’s online, you can’t change it without uploading a new version. A live stream, by contrast, is broadcast in real time. Viewers join while it’s happening, and platforms like YouTube often highlight live streams, giving them broader reach. Livestreaming is one of the best things to do keep your audience engaged by building a vibrant community around your content and in the chat box of your stream!

Why use Upstream when I could stream directly to YouTube?

While you can stream directly on YouTube, Upstream simplifies the process and offers several advantages:

• 24/7 YouTube Live streaming without leaving a device running. We handle the hardware and server management.
• Best‑in‑class stream builder with multi‑channel audio, custom overlays and other professional features to add your logo, embed websites or even embed another video
• On-the-fly control: queue multiple videos, add new content while live
• Separate Video and Audio Playlists
• Secondary Audio Channel for atmospheric sounds.
• Ease of use: no software installation or technical knowledge required.
• Schedule your streams START and STOP times at specific times
• Multistreaming to 10 platforms
• Monetization Control: Set Ad Cuepoints / Ad slots
• Upstream is a YouTube Verified software encoder so you can be sure your streams are in good hands

Do I need my own server?

No. All server infrastructure is included. You simply log in, upload your content, and start streaming, expand your reach and get that watch time you’re missing out on!

What is the difference between Upstream and other live streaming platforms?

Unlike general streaming tools, Upstream is purpose‑built for 24/7, continuous, unattended streaming. Our stream builder allows you to create a customized stream with layered graphics, multi‑channel audio and pre‑scheduled content – without the need for editing or design skills.

How is Upstream different from OBS?

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a desktop application that allows you to broadcast live from your own device. Upstream is a cloud service that streams on your behalf. While OBS is a great tool, you need to keep your computer turned on for the duration of the stream, along with an excellent internet connection. With Upstream, your stream continues even if you shut down your device and go offline. Also, we provide built‑in features like content scheduling, looping, stream designer, website embeds, interactive widgets and custom fonts, among others. Upstream is everything you need – in an intuitive interface.

Can I multistream to multiple platforms?

Yes, you can multistream / multicast to 10 platforms simultaneously.

Can I run and manage multiple livestreams on my YouTube Channel at once?

Yes! Our plans are based on the number of 24/7 livestreams you can run at once – if you want to start multiple streams, you can subscribe to a plan with the appropriate number of streams, and you are all set!

Can I stream for less than 24 hours?

Yes! You can stream as long as you want to, you can stop your stream any time you would like, and start a new one. There is no limit to the amount of times you can start and stop a stream – that’s completely up to you!

Experience

How do I connect my streaming accounts?

From your dashboard, select Create Stream and choose the platform you want to broadcast to. You can choose to connect manually via the Stream Key, or use our one-click connection to YouTube: YouTube Connect. We provide step‑by‑step instructions, complete with screenshots, to link your accounts, in our helpdesk.

How long does it take to go live?

Less than five minutes. As soon as you create your account, we create your streaming server automatically. After uploading your pre-recorded videos and setting up your playlist, your stream goes live almost immediately.

Can I use my own custom backgrounds and audio files?

Yes. Upload any image, video or audio file. Our system supports multi‑channel audio, so you can mix ambient sounds, music and effects to craft a unique atmosphere—whether it’s a snowy mountain scene with crackling fire, busy city sounds or gentle ocean waves.

Can I update my background image, video or audio without interrupting my stream?

Yes. Upstream allows you to swap out videos, backgrounds or audio files on the fly without stopping your broadcast. This makes it easy to adjust for time of day, weather or special events. An automated version of this feature is in development.

Who typically uses Upstream?

Anyone who needs a constant stream presence: streamers wanting to maintain channel activity, YouTube creators needing a 24/7 broadcast, businesses or brands looking to display content around the clock, schools, non‑profits and more.

Is streaming considered duplicate content?

No. Streaming is not considered duplicate content by Google. Streaming is considered a different format than a video on demand and is treated as such by web crawlers.

Billing

How much does Upstream cost?

Upstream offers multiple packages based on the number of 24/7 streams you can run simultaneously. Each of our plans is fully functional. You can find more information about our pricing plans here.

When will my order be processed?

Your order will be processed immediately. You will be charged immediately and your subscription will start immediately.

Do you offer a free trial?

Yes, We offer a free trial, no credit card needed, activated as soon as you sign up! it lasts between 2 and 48 hours, depending on available resources. The trial period may be extended or shortened at our discretion.

How do I change my subscription plan?

You can change your subscription plan at any time. Simply go to your dashboard and click on the “Manage Subscription” button to change your subscription plan.

How do I cancel my subscription?

You can cancel your subscription at any time. Simply go to your “Manage Subscription” page and click on the “Cancel Subscription” button.

How do I delete my account?

You can delete your account at any time from your user account settings. Deleting your account automatically cancels your subscription, so you don’t need to cancel separately. Although we’re sad to see you go, we understand that sometimes things don’t work out. If you need assistance, please email us at contact@upstream.so -we’re happy to help.

Security

How do I change my password?

Log in, go to My Account, and select Change Password. You can update your password at any time.

How do I change my password if I logged in with Google?

You can always (re)set your password on www.upstream.so/forgot-password.

Are you GDPR compliant?

Yes. Our company is based in Europe, and we fully comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). For more details, see our privacy policy.