Streaming 101: TESTING! - How can I test to make sure it's working?

Testing, testing, testing! I LOVE to test.

It's an important step in producing an amazing show. The last thing you want to be worrying about 10 minutes before you need to perform is if the tech is working!

There are two ways we can test our stream:

Testing Option 1:

Your first option is my quick, troubleshooting go to when I'm setting up a livestream. It utilizes the 'Start Recording' button in OBS and is a life saver for quick troubleshooting!

It's as easy as hitting 'Start Recording' found in the bottom right corner of OBS:

Now, all you need to do is head to your finder and watch back the video! The video will have recorded exactly what would have gone out onto the internet had you pressed 'Start Streaming' instead of 'Start Recording'. This makes it a perfect way to test quickly without having to set up and monitor an actual stream.

But what if I can't find the video file?

Worry not, I've got you!

If you can't figure out where your video recording has gone just click on the 'Settings' button located at the bottom right of OBS: