How to Go Live on Facebook

Before you start

Facebook Live runs through the Facebook website or mobile app, so you do not need separate streaming software for a basic broadcast. Your device needs a working camera and microphone, plus an internet connection that can sustain the video bitrate you select. If you plan to use an external camera, microphone, or encoding tool, connect it and make sure it is recognized by your device before opening Facebook. Also check the privacy setting for the post: you can broadcast publicly, to friends, or to a selected audience.

Step-by-step instructions

The exact buttons vary slightly between the mobile app and the desktop website, but the process is similar in both.

For a phone or tablet:

• Open the Facebook app and go to the place where you want the live video to appear, such as your timeline, a Page, or a group.
• Tap the option to create a post, then choose Live video. Depending on your version, Live may appear as a separate option or under a video icon.
• Allow Facebook to use the camera and microphone if you are asked.
• Choose the capture source. You can use the front or rear camera and set the video orientation before you start.
• Add a description that tells viewers what the broadcast is about.
• Check the audience selector and adjust it if you do not want a public broadcast.
• Tap Start live video. You can stop the broadcast from the same screen.

For a computer:

• Open your browser and go to Facebook.
• Go to the post composer on your profile, Page, or group.
• Select the video or live video option. On some versions, this is under the three-dot menu.
• Choose the camera and microphone you want Facebook to use.
• Write a description and select the audience.
• Select Go live and wait for the stream to start.
• When you finish, select End live video.

Check the output

After you start the broadcast, check that the preview is moving and that the audio meter responds when you speak. Viewers may comment in real time, which is one way to confirm that the stream is visible. If you are using a computer, Facebook may show stream health indicators for the connection and bitrate. Keep in mind that the preview may lag slightly behind the live broadcast, and the recording format available after the stream ends can depend on the device and your account type.

Common problems and next steps

If the live option is missing, make sure the Facebook app or browser page is up to date and that the camera permission is not blocked in your system settings. A blank preview can mean another app is already using the camera or microphone. If the stream freezes or the quality drops, reduce the video resolution or frame rate where the option is available, or move closer to the router. When the broadcast still will not start, close and reopen the app or browser, or try switching between the front and back camera. If you use an encoding tool, check that it is sending the chosen capture source to Facebook and that the bitrate matches the selected video settings.