Using a VPS as your streaming relay or encoder unlocks capabilities that pure local streaming can't match. Here's how creators combine OBS with VPS infrastructure.
Workflow Options
Option 1: OBS → VPS Relay → Platforms
Stream from OBS to your VPS. VPS pushes to platforms.
- Your upload: one stream
- VPS handles multiplatform distribution
- If OBS drops, VPS can show a "be right back" screen
Option 2: OBS → VPS → Re-encode → Platforms
VPS receives your stream and re-encodes at different qualities.
- Your upload: high quality to VPS
- VPS creates 1080p, 720p, and 480p versions
- Platforms receive optimized streams
Option 3: Full Cloud Encoding
Capture video on your PC, send raw frames to VPS for encoding.
- Frees your PC from encoding burden
- Requires significant upload bandwidth
- Best for powerful VPS instances
Setting Up a Relay (Option 1)
VPS Side
Install Nginx-RTMP:
sudo apt install nginx libnginx-mod-rtmp
Configure /etc/nginx/nginx.conf:
rtmp {
server {
listen 1935;
application relay {
live on;
push rtmp://live.twitch.tv/app/YOUR_KEY;
push rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2/YOUR_KEY;
# Fallback scene when source disconnects
exec_static ffmpeg -loop 1 -i /stream/brb.png -c:v libx264 -b:v 1500k -f flv rtmp://localhost/relay/fallback;
}
}
}
OBS Settings
- Stream Type: Custom
- Server:
rtmp://your-vps-ip/relay - Stream Key:
live(or whatever you want)
"Be Right Back" Screen
When your OBS disconnects (PC restart, crash, internet drop), the VPS detects the source loss and switches to a pre-configured BRB screen. When you reconnect, it switches back automatically. This prevents dead air.
Remote Management
SSH Access
Manage the stream from your phone or any device:
ssh user@your-vps
systemctl restart stream-relay
Web Dashboard
Set up a simple web panel:
# Basic stats endpoint
http://your-vps:8080/stat
Shows active streams, bitrates, and connected viewers.
VPS Requirements for Relay
Pure relay (no re-encoding):
- 1 core, 1GB RAM
- Bandwidth: 2x your stream bitrate per platform
Re-encoding:
- 4+ cores, 4GB RAM
- Bandwidth: same as relay
A Space-Node VPS handles relay duties easily. For re-encoding to multiple quality levels, a 4-core plan provides comfortable headroom.
Benefits for Creators
- Multistream without restreaming services: No monthly fees to Restream.io or similar
- Automatic failover: BRB screen when your PC drops
- Lower home bandwidth usage: One outbound stream instead of multiple
- Professional reliability: Datacenter uptime > home internet uptime
- Full control: No third-party restrictions on content or features
