Creating a Private Test Stream on Facebook

Testing your stream before going live is a valuable asset. It alerts you to any potential networking or quality issues before you are live. Switcher Studio allows you to create a private test stream on Facebook. The stream will appear on your Facebook Timeline and is visible only to only. This means that no one else can go to your Timeline and view the private stream.

Note: Before creating a private test stream, your Facebook account will need to be connected to Switcher Studio. You can follow the steps in the Streaming to Facebook with Switcher Studio article to connect your account.

In this article:

Setting up a Private Test Stream

  • Go to the Outputs tab on the main switcher device.

  • Tap Facebook.

  • Under My Timeline, tap Private test stream.

  • Enter the Title and Event Description.

    • Here you can tap the Speed Test button to test your internet speed and automatically select the optimal stream quality based on the results.

    • Alternatively, you can manually select a stream quality by tapping an option.

  • Scroll down to the bottom of the setup screen.

  • Tap the Save button when you are satisfied with the settings.

Note: The quality of your production still depends on the strength and consistency of your network. If you are concerned about your upload speed or reliability of your network, we recommend selecting a lower stream quality to prevent broadcast issues. The Stream Quality Settings & Required Upload Speeds article outlines the minimum upload speeds for each stream quality.

Going Live to a Private Test Stream

After following the steps above, you will be taken back to the Outputs tab. You will see a blue checkmark next to Facebook and the words, "Private test stream".

To begin the private stream:

  • Tap the record button in the top right corner.

    • After a few seconds, the video will appear on your Timeline.

    • You are the only person who can see the stream.

  • When you have finished testing the stream, press the stop button (square) in the top-right corner.

Video Tutorial

Keyword(s): private, test, stream, facebook, speed, test, connection