SHOUTcast Server Hosting
SHOUTcast is streaming server technology for internet radio. Your broadcasting software sends audio to a server, and listeners connect to that server to hear your station. Free-ShoutCast.com provides the hosting so you can focus on your programmes.
How SHOUTcast works
A radio stream has three parts: an audio source, a streaming server and a listener player. Your source combines microphone audio, music or other recordings and encodes it for transmission. The SHOUTcast server receives that stream and distributes it to connected listeners. You upload one source stream instead of sending a separate copy from your studio to every listener.
What you need to broadcast
Start with a computer, an internet connection and broadcasting software that supports your SHOUTcast server. Add a microphone or mixer for live presentation. After registering, use the server address, port and source credentials supplied in your account to configure your encoder. Keep source credentials private: listeners should use your public listening link.
Choosing your hosting plan
Compare the listener capacity, maximum bitrate and transfer allowance of each plan. Listener capacity sets how many people can connect at once; bitrate affects audio quality and data use. A monthly transfer allowance is a separate limit, so the right plan depends on both the size of your audience and how long they listen. Check the current plans before choosing.
Your first connection test
Connect your encoder, start a short broadcast and open your public listening link on another device. Check that audio is clear and station details are correct. Listen long enough to catch interruptions, then share the public link with your audience. If you hear silence, check the encoder input and source connection before changing the player.
Is SHOUTcast the same as broadcasting software?
No. Broadcasting software prepares and sends the audio. SHOUTcast distributes that audio to listeners. A live station needs both a source and a server; an AutoDJ service can provide the source for uploaded recordings.
Give your station a home
Explore the current plans and register your radio server on Free-ShoutCast.com.
Choose your plan