Simulcast Streaming: How to Broadcast from Several Locations

You own your stream, but reach is limited. Simulcast streaming bridges that gap, letting you stream live on multiple platforms without giving up control. Broadcasting from your own site or app gives you branding, monetization, and content ownership. However, this often means you’re speaking to a smaller audience.

This is where simulcasting plays the major role. By pushing your simulcast livestream to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn simultaneously, you can instantly scale your message. Today, AI-powered simulcasting services and real-time CDN sync have made it easier than ever to manage and automate live video simulcasting, even across dozens of destinations at once.

In this article, we’ll explain what simulcast streaming is, how it works, and why it matters. You’ll also learn three reliable methods for simulcasting, including their pros, cons, and tips for achieving the best results.

Table of Contents:

• What is Simulcast Streaming?
• Simulcast vs Multistream vs Multicast
• Simulcast Streaming
• Top 3 Methods to Simulcast in 2025
• Simulcast Platform Comparison: Restream vs Switchboard Live vs Castr
• Simulcast Streaming on Dacast
• FAQs
• Conclusion

What is Simulcast Streaming?

Simulcast streaming (or simultaneous broadcast) means streaming the same live video to multiple platforms at once. Instead of choosing between YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, or your own website, you can stream to all of them simultaneously.

While the term “simulcast” originated in radio, it has become a powerful tool for digital broadcasters today. A simulcast livestream lets you push the same content to different destinations in real time. This includes your branded site or app, plus social media platforms, video hubs, or even embedded players for clients and partners.

This type of multi-platform broadcasting expands your content’s reach without sacrificing control. You retain your branding, own your data, and can drive traffic back to your site, all while increasing exposure on high-traffic platforms. It’s an efficient way to grow your audience, create more monetization channels, and meet your viewers where they are.

Thanks to advances in simulcasting services and cloud-based simulcast software, setting up a simulcast today is faster and more automated than ever. You no longer need separate encoders or complex server setups. Modern platforms allow simultaneous live streaming to multiple platforms with a few clicks.

Here are some social engagement statistics you may find useful:

• People watch an average of 1 hour and 16 minutes daily of short-form videos
• 82% of viewers prefer live video over brand social posts
• Social video generates 12X more shares than text and images combined.

Simulcast vs Multistream vs Multicast

As broadcasters look to expand their audience across platforms, understanding the differences between simulcast streaming, multistreaming, and multicast is key. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are technically different methods with distinct use cases. Let’s have a look at what each of them means.

Simulcast Streaming

Simulcasting is the process of sending a single live stream to a cloud-based service (like Dacast or Switchboard Live). It then distributes it to multiple platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and your own site.

• Example: You send one HD stream to Switchboard Live, and it sends it simultaneously to five platforms.
• Use Case: Live events, brand launches, and nonprofits using simulcast livestream tools to boost visibility without incurring additional bandwidth costs.

Multistreaming (Manual Upload to Each Platform)

Multistreaming refers to sending separate live feeds to each platform from your local encoder. Each destination receives its own stream.

• Example: OBS Studio uploads five separate streams—one to each platform.
• Use Case: Advanced streamers who want full control or require different overlays for each platform. Often used with multistreaming platforms.

Multicast 

Multicast is a network-level protocol that delivers a stream to multiple endpoints inside a controlled network (like a company intranet or campus). It’s not suitable for public internet broadcasting.

• Example: A university live stream aired across lecture halls via multicast.
• Use Case: Internal training, closed-circuit video, and streaming TV to multiple locations over LAN. 

Pros and Cons of Each Method

Before we move into the three methods for simulcast streaming, it’s important to clarify some different language and verbiage used to describe this type of technology. As you’ve researched this subject and some of the tools to support simulcasting, you’ve likely seen terms like “multistream,” “multicast,” or “multistreaming” come up.

Multistreaming is short for “multi-destination streaming.” Multistream and multicast are also used to abbreviate that term. This function is identical to simulcasting.

Simulcast streaming and multistreaming platform technology both mean to stream the same feed to multiple destinations or platforms in real-time.

Multi-location live streaming and simulcast streaming are just different terms used to describe the same process.

Top 3 Methods to Simulcast in 2025

If you’re wondering how to stream live on multiple platforms simultaneously, you’re not alone. In 2025, simulcast streaming has become easier and more powerful, thanks to tools that help broadcasters distribute a single stream to several destinations at once.

Here are the top three ways to set up a simulcast live stream, including best use cases, industry examples, and pros and cons of each method. One of these methods will fit your needs, whether you’re streaming a church service, hosting a corporate town hall, or producing a live concert.

1. Switchboard Live for Seamless Simulcast Streaming

Switchboard Live is a popular multistreaming platform that connects to your encoder or online video platform (OVP) and redistributes your stream to multiple destinations like YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and your own site.

This method simplifies how to stream to more than one platform—you only need to upload once. It’s particularly helpful for events, enterprise broadcasts, and churches that need reliability, reach, and compliance with Facebook Live restrictions.

Platforms like Dacast integrate directly with Switchboard Live, making the process even smoother.

Best Use Case:

• For Event Producers: Reach audiences across platforms with minimal setup.
• For Enterprise Town Halls: Broadcast securely to internal platforms and public channels at the same time.

There are other platforms similar to Switchboard Live that offer multistreaming support. You can compare these options in our simulcasting platform review.

2. Share Code Streaming: Lightweight, Branded Distribution

Share code streaming uses embeddable links or social share cards that direct users to your hosted video player. It’s not full multistreaming, but it’s a powerful workaround for those who want live streaming to multiple platforms while keeping control over branding, monetization, and video length.

Unlike direct posting to Facebook or YouTube, share codes let you bypass platform restrictions (like Facebook’s 4-hour live limit) and apply your own monetization tools like paywalls, ads, or subscriptions.

Best Use Case:

• Simulcasting for Churches: Embed long-form or 24/7 streams on social channels with donation links.
• For Education or Niche Brands: Preserve full branding while promoting on social.

3. Encoder-Level Streaming: Full Custom Control

This is the most technical method. It involves setting up multiple output destinations directly in your encoder (OBS, Wirecast, vMix, etc.). The encoder sends one stream to each platform, including YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn Live, Twitch, and more.

While this method gives full control over resolution, overlays, and timing per platform, it puts more strain on your internet connection and requires a robust system. It also conflicts with Facebook’s streaming policies if Facebook is the primary destination.

Still, for high-end broadcasters or tech-savvy users, encoder simulcasting is a great option.

Best Use Case:

• For Advanced Live Producers: When separate overlays or audio channels are needed per platform.
• For Sports or Gaming: Where platform-specific customization matters.

Emerging Option: Restream Studio, Castr, or OBS with Plugins

New tools like Restream Studio and Castr offer cloud-based multistreaming with built-in layouts, chat, and guest support. These platforms are excellent for solo streamers or small teams who want to stream live on multiple platforms without needing complex setups.

OBS Studio also now supports plugin-based multi-destination live streaming. With the right plugin, you can use OBS to simulate encoder-level streaming without needing extra software.

Best Use Case:

• For Creators and Influencers: Easy simulcasting with guest support and visual tools.

Simulcast Platform Comparison: Restream vs Switchboard Live vs Castr

Use Case Breakdown:

Restream

• Best For: Creators, marketers, solopreneurs
• Why: Fast browser-based setup, no need for an encoder
• Limitations: Limited branded monetization options, relies on native social players

Switchboard Live

• Best For: Churches, event producers, enterprise town halls
• Why: Seamless OVP integration, overrides Facebook Live limits, excellent for multi-platform broadcasting
• Limitations: No built-in studio; setup can be more complex without OVP

Castr

• Best For: Nonprofits, educators, media groups
• Why: Affordable, supports embedded branded players, built-in studio, simulcast livestream, and VOD scheduling

Limitations: Requires setup for advanced monetization workflows

Simulcast Streaming on Dacast

Dacast supports multiple methods of simulcast streaming, allowing you to livestream to multiple platforms from a single broadcast. Whether you’re streaming a church service, a corporate event, or a product launch, Dacast offers seamless tools for multistreaming, with support for Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and more.

1. Using Dacast + Switchboard Live

The most powerful way to simulcast live with Dacast is by integrating it with Switchboard Live, a dedicated multistreaming platform. This setup allows you to stream directly from Dacast while syndicating the same stream to social media platforms, websites, and other destinations.

Using Dacast with Switchboard Live offers several key advantages for simulcast streaming. It allows broadcasters to bypass Facebook’s restrictions on multi-destination streaming, enabling more flexibility in platform distribution. Users can retain full control over their monetization settings and player branding, which is crucial for businesses focused on revenue and brand consistency. 

This setup also supports real-time syndication to platforms like YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and LinkedIn, allowing for broad audience reach. Additionally, it includes support for vertical video formats, which are ideal for mobile-first platforms, and enables synchronized live comment feeds across different channels, thereby enhancing viewer engagement.

Follow these steps to set it up:

1. Log in to your Dacast dashboard and create a new live stream channel.
2. In your encoder, set Dacast as the primary destination (via RTMP).
3. Connect your Dacast stream to Switchboard Live.
4. In Switchboard, add destinations like Facebook Live, YouTube, LinkedIn, and others.
5. Go live, and your stream will automatically distribute across platforms.

2. Using Share Code Streaming (Lightweight Simulcast)

Dacast includes a free share code streaming tool that lets you distribute your livestream link to social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn — with just a copy-paste.

Best for: Quick social promotion, budget-conscious simulcast, and direct traffic to your website.

How It Works:

1. Navigate to the Publish Settings of your live stream in Dacast.
2. Copy the Facebook Share Code (a short embed script).
3. Paste this into a Facebook post, tweet, or LinkedIn update.
4. Your video preview will appear as a clickable thumbnail.
5. Viewers click to watch the live video on your website or portal.
   

This approach is not full multi-platform broadcasting, but it’s an effective way to share your content broadly, while retaining control over your player, ads, and analytics.

3. RTMP with Encoders (Manual Multi-Destination Streaming)

If you’re experienced with streaming workflows, you can configure encoder simulcasting directly from tools like OBS Studio, vMix, Wirecast, or VidBlasterX. This method is ideal for event producers who need precise control over resolution and streaming quality. 

It’s also a great fit for churches or houses of worship that often rely on more complex audio-visual setups and require reliable multi-platform broadcasting. Additionally, this approach supports live video simulcasting to niche audiences or custom RTMP destinations that may not be available through standard multistreaming platforms.

How To Simulcast from Encoder:

1. Open your preferred encoder (e.g., OBS).
2. Add your Dacast RTMP stream as the primary output.
3. Add additional destinations (e.g., YouTube, Twitch, Facebook) using custom RTMP settings.
4. Ensure you have enough upload bandwidth to handle simultaneous streams.
5. Hit “Start Streaming.”

Note: Facebook may block primary multistreaming unless used as a secondary destination. In that case, Switchboard Live is recommended.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between simulcast, multistream, and multicast?

Simulcast means broadcasting the same live stream to multiple platforms at the same time. Multistream is often used interchangeably with simulcast, but typically refers to sending multiple unique streams. Multicast is a network-level protocol (used in private networks) that sends a single stream to many viewers without duplicating bandwidth per user.

2. What’s the best platform to simulcast for sports/webinars/worship?

For sports, use Restream or Castr (for low latency and chat sync). Switchboard Live or Zoom and Dacast (for branding and control) are excellent for webinars. For worship services, use Dacast with share codes or encoder-level simulcast (for reliability and reach).

3. Can I simulcast with different resolution requirements per platform?

Yes, some platforms like Switchboard Live and OBS with plugins allow resolution or bitrate adjustments per destination. Encoder-level simulcasting can also handle this if supported.

4. How do I simulcast my live stream to multiple platforms at once?

Use a multistreaming service (e.g., Switchboard, Restream), set up multiple RTMP outputs in your encoder (OBS, vMix, Wirecast), or use share codes to link from one platform to others.

5. What are the bandwidth requirements for simulcast streaming?

If sending multiple streams directly (encoder-level), multiply your stream bitrate by the number of destinations. For example, 4 Mbps × 3 platforms = 12 Mbps upload speed needed. Using a cloud-based service like Switchboard reduces local bandwidth needs.

6. Can I simulcast to TikTok, LinkedIn Live, and Twitch in 2025?

Yes, major simulcasting services and encoder tools now support TikTok, LinkedIn Live, and Twitch, often with vertical video and mobile stream support.

7. What’s the best method for simulcasting with monetization?

Use a platform like Dacast to keep monetization on your site, then use share code streaming or Switchboard Live integration to expand reach while maintaining control over paywalls and ads.

8. How do I simulcast from OBS, Wirecast, or vMix?

In OBS, set up multiple RTMP outputs using the Multiple RTMP plugin. Wirecast and vMix natively support multi-destination streaming under their output settings. Just add each platform’s stream key and URL.

9. Can I simulcast from mobile devices or remote locations?

Yes. Apps like Larix Broadcaster, Streamlabs Mobile, and browser-based tools like Restream Studio allow mobile simulcast streaming, even on cellular networks.

10. How does simulcast streaming affect latency or stream quality?

Using encoder-level simulcasting can increase latency and consume more upload bandwidth. Cloud-based simulcasting reduces this impact, keeping latency lower and stream quality more stable across platforms.

Conclusion

Simulcast streaming has become an essential part of reaching audiences across platforms, with over 8.5B hours of live streams watched in the last quarter of 2024. This only shows that simultaneous live streaming to multiple platforms ensures your content is seen where your viewers already are.

Dacast supports full-featured simulcast streaming through Switchboard Live integration, share code streaming, and encoder simulcasting. This gives you total control over monetization, analytics per destination, and DRM security, all from one dashboard.

With support for Twitch, TikTok, LinkedIn Live, and vertical video formats, Dacast stays ahead of where viewers are watching. Dacast adapts to your needs, whether it’s simulcasting services for nonprofits or multi-platform broadcasting for enterprises.

Try Dacast completely free today with our unbeatable 14-day full free trial. It’s the risk-free way to test out our platform. And if you have specific requirements, reach out to our support team. They’ll assist you in achieving the best setup for your needs.

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