Instagram Live creators are no longer limited to streaming from the mobile app. Now, anyone with a Professional Instagram account can go live on a computer, using Restream Studio or any other streaming software like OBS.
How to stream on Instagram with Restream
1. Ensure your Instagram account is set to Professional. It only takes a few minutes to switch it over, doesn’t cost a thing, and there’s no minimum follower requirement.
2. To create your live stream, go to instagram.com on a computer and sign in to your account. Select the Create button from the menu options on the left, then click Live video from the drop-down menu. Select Public or Private for your audience, add a stream title, and access your stream key and URL.
3. Log in to your Restream account. Select Edit Destinations. Select Instagram, and then paste the stream key and URL from Instagram into Restream. Remember, your Instagram stream key expires after every live stream, so you need a new stream key every time you start a new broadcast.
4. Enter Restream Studio and set up your camera, microphone, and graphics. When you're set, select Go Live in both Restream and Instagram's Live Video tab.
5. When you're ready to end your stream, stop it in Restream first. Then, stop it in Instagram's Live Video tab. When it’s over, you can check your Restream recordings to download video for easy repurposing and creating highlights.
Note: When you go live in Restream, recording starts automatically, even if you haven’t hit the Go Live button in Instagram yet. So if you’re planning to download and repurpose the recording of your Instagram live stream for later, keep in mind that the recording will start from the moment you select Go Live in Restream. Also, if you’re looking for your live stream recordings on Instagram, you’ll only be able to access them from the Instagram mobile app. You’ll also have to ensure you enable recording before going live on Instagram.
Technical Requirements
Use the following technical requirements to ensure your Instagram Live stream has the highest- quality possible.
Video
- 9x16 aspect ratio (recommended but not required)
- 720p at 30 fps (note: 30 fps is recommended, but Instagram Live can also support 60 fps if desired. When using 60 fps, the Live Video preview screen will still display 30 fps.)
- Video bitrate range: 2,250-6,000 Kbps
- Resolution: 720x1280
- Alternatives (supported but not recommended): 480p at 30fps, 360p
Audio
- Sample rate: 44.1KHz
- Channel layout: Stereo
- Bitrate: Up to 256 Kbps
FAQs
How do I get a Professional Instagram account?
You can easily switch a personal Instagram account to a Professional one by going to your profile settings and selecting Switch to Professional Account. Then, fill in a few details about your profile, and the change will take effect immediately.
See our guide for Switching to Instagram Professional.
Do I need a new Instagram Stream Key and URL for each stream?
Yes, you need a new stream key and URL for each stream on Instagram. Stream keys expire five hours after you first access them. So don’t copy your stream key until right before you go live.
Can I schedule an Instagram Live event?
Instagram doesn't let you create event posts. But you can announce your event on other channels or as a separate post on Instagram. Be sure to get a new stream key and URL from the Live Video Preview on Instagram less than 5 hours before your event.
Should I stream in vertical mode on Instagram?
Yes, live streaming in vertical mode is recommended for Instagram. Use a 9x16 aspect ratio. When you go live using Restream Studio, you can select portrait mode. If you stream in horizontal mode, it might crop your video or add black boxes on the sides.
My stream isn't showing on Instagram. What should I do?
There are a few ways you can troubleshoot a stream that doesn’t show up on Instagram.
- Make sure your stream is set to Public. Private streams only show in Preview; nobody else can see them but you.
- Start your stream on Instagram after starting it in Restream. Keep the Live Video Preview open.
- If everything seems right, but it's still not working, reach out to Restream’s 24/7 Support chat.
I can't see my stream when I check my Instagram account on mobile.
Don't worry, this is by design. You can check if you are live in your preview (Instagram tab) – you should see the account names of viewers joining the stream and their chats. If you want to view your stream on a mobile device, you need to log in with a different account. Using the same account that is currently streaming may disrupt your broadcast.
Can I see Instagram comments in Restream Chat?
No, not yet — but we’re working on it. Soon you’ll be able to see Instagram comments in Restream Chat but for now, keep the Live Video tab open on Instagram to check the comments.
Can I schedule a pre-recorded stream on Instagram?
Yes, you can use Restream to schedule a previously-recorded video to go live on Instagram. Here’s how:
- Upload your pre-recorded video to Restream.
- Get a new stream key from Instagram within 5 hours of your event.
- Start your stream manually in Instagram's Live Video Preview.
- The video will automatically play in Restream and will broadcast on your Instagram profile.
- To end it, you must manually end the stream in Instagram’s Live Video Preview.
Is live streaming on Instagram free?
Yes, you can stream for free on Instagram with Restream. If you want to stream on multiple channels, add custom graphics or stream in Full HD, consider upgrading your Restream plan.
Why do I hear an echo when I am live on Instagram?
You can eliminate the echo by muting your Instagram live tab. Simply right-click on it in your browser and choose 'Mute.' Remember not to close the Instagram tab while you are still streaming, as you'll need it to end your broadcast.
How do I get a recording of my Instagram Live stream?
There are two options. First, find it in your Instagram App under Archive (switch from Stories to Live Archive). Or, download your video from Restream recordings.
