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ApsaraVideo Live:FAQ about ARTC

Last Updated:Feb 25, 2026

This topic provides answers to some frequently asked questions about ApsaraVideo Real-time Communication (ARTC).

What are the differences between joining a channel with a single parameter versus multiple parameters?

  • There is no difference in functionality. The single-parameter method is a Base64-encoded JSON string that contains all the values required by the multi-parameter method.

  • The single-parameter method allows your app server to generate and deliver all authentication parameters in a single payload, preventing potential parameter inconsistencies between the client and server.

  • We recommend using the single-parameter method for new integrations.

Why is the OnJoinChannelResult callback not triggered after joining a channel?

  • If joinchannel returns a non-zero value, the operation failed due to invalid parameters.

  • Check the network connection status. If the joinchannel operation does not report an error, the SDK retries to connect to the server when a network issue occurs. Listen for the onConnectionStatusChange callback to get real-time updates on the SDK's connection status. You can also stop the SDK and try again.

  • Check the calculated authentication token. If the token is invalid, an error will be reported through the OnJoinChannelResult callback.

Why can't I use DingRTC SDK to join a channel?

ARTC is a real-time communication system built on the Global Realtime Transport Network (GRTN), whereas DingRTC is a separate, incompatible system. To use the ARTC service, you must create an ARTC application in the ApsaraVideo Live console and integrate the ARTC SDK downloaded from the links provided in the official ApsaraVideo Live documentation.

How do I select a channel profile?

The interactive mode (InteractiveLive) supports a "viewer" role, while the communication mode (Communication) does not. If you are unsure whether your business requires interactive features, use InteractiveLive for maximum flexibility.

What are the differences between the co-hosting API and the ARTC API?

The co-hosting API is a layer of easy-to-use interfaces built on top of the ARTC API, tailored for live streaming scenarios.

Why can't the "live.aliyun.com" domain in the co-hosting URL be pinged?

"live.aliyun.com" is not a direct server address, so it is normal that you cannot ping it. When using the URL, pay attention to other parameters in the URL besides the domain.

What are the differences between the View provided by ARTC SDK and the system view?

The AliRenderView provided by ARTC SDK for iOS and the SurfaceView and TextureView for Android are encapsulated UI components based on the system view. In addition to the basic features, they also support monitoring the entire View lifecycle and implementing customized functionality. We recommend using the View provided by ARTC SDK.

Why do I receive an error when calling APIs such as LeaveChannel?

An error during an API call indicates either that the parameters are invalid or the timing is incorrect. For the LeaveChannel API, since it takes no parameters, an error means the timing is incorrect (for example, calling it before joining a channel or multiple times). However, you do not need to worry about this error because ARTC uses a stateful API design. You only need to set a desired state; callbacks are used to confirm the actual state. Using LeaveChannel as an example, no matter when you call it during the SDK's lifecycle, the SDK will ensure its internal state becomes 'left channel'.

The clients need to handle unrecoverable errors from the SDK. For details, see Initialize the ARTC engine and register callbacks.

How do I detect the current network status?

The network status refers to the connection status between the SDK and the backend service. Listen for the onConnectionStatusChange callback to get real-time updates on the connection status. For more information, see Channel connection status management.

Does muting audio affect billing?

  1. You are billed as long as you are in a channel.

  2. When there is a subscription, the subscribed streams are billed. Whether the audio is muted does not affect billing.

  3. For more information, see Audio and video call fees.

Which ports and domain names should I whitelist if I have a firewall?

Ports

Protocol

Port

TCP

80 443

UDP

8443 1106

Domain names

gw.rtn.aliyuncs.com

rsdk-rtcsub.data.alivecdn.com

r5-rtcpub.media-sh.alivecdn.com

r5-rtcsub.media-sh.alivecdn.com

rs.rtn.aliyuncs.com