What does it mean to self-host a video for Mindstamp?
Self-hosting keeps the video file on storage you control, such as Amazon S3, while Mindstamp adds interactions. Learn the link rules and what you manage.
Short answer
Self-hosting means the video file stays on storage you control, such as Amazon S3 or your own server, and Mindstamp plays it from that address. Add it with the Link source: paste a public MP4 or HLS (.m3u8) link that does not expire. Your interactions, settings and reports still live in Mindstamp.
How to do it
- Put the video file on your storage and make it public over HTTPS, with no login and no expiring token.
- Copy the direct file address. It must end in .mp4 or .m3u8.
- In Mindstamp, select New video, then Link, and paste the address.
- Wait for Link works, then select Create Video.
- Open the share link in a private browser window, on a phone, and on another network to check that viewers can play it.
Link messages
- Not a video file: the address does not point to an MP4 or HLS file. Copy the direct file address, not a web page.
- Link requires login: the server refused access. Make the file public.
- Link unreachable: Mindstamp cannot load the address. Check the address and that the server is online.
What you manage when you self-host
Your server delivers the video, so you are responsible for its availability, speed and bandwidth. A link that works for you can fail for viewers if it expires, needs a login, or is blocked on their network.
An MP4 link gives every viewer the same file. An HLS link with several quality levels lets the player adapt to each viewer’s connection. See HLS and MP4.
For HLS, the browser loads the playlist and each segment from your server, so your server must allow cross-origin requests (CORS) from the Mindstamp player.
Alerts when a link stops working
If Mindstamp cannot reach your link, the video is marked Unreachable and the editor shows Video link unreachable. Select Re-check link after you fix the file, or Replace video to use a new address. Your interactions stay.
Features that depend on the source type
- Transcripts work for MP4 links but not for HLS links.
- Download source works for MP4 links but not for HLS links.
- Some accounts are set up for self-hosted video only. On these accounts, Upload shows No Upload Access.
Go further
Support
Still need an answer?
Send the video link and what you see, and the Mindstamp team will help.