WebRTC Explained: How It Works and What to Look For
WebRTC lets browsers exchange real-time media and data between peers.
Published by Protocol Explorer · Reviewed
How WebRTC works
Peers exchange session descriptions through application-defined signalling, use ICE to find a working path, and protect media with DTLS and SRTP. A relay may be needed when a direct path fails.
What to look for in an exchange
Distinguish the signalling channel from the media path. ICE candidates and STUN checks describe connectivity; media packets follow after security negotiation.
Follow an example step by step
- Follow signalling messages that exchange session descriptions; the application chooses the signalling transport.
- Compare ICE candidates and connectivity checks to see which network path succeeds.
- Find the DTLS handshake and distinguish protected media or data packets from signalling traffic.
Common interpretation mistake
Peer-to-peer does not guarantee a direct path; TURN can relay traffic when direct connectivity fails.
Key point to remember
WebRTC media is protected, but the application still needs to authenticate and authorize its participants.
Explore the protocol
The WebRTC overview is free without an account. Its full interactive lesson is included in Protocol Explorer Pro, a one-time $4.99 purchase; an account is required to buy Pro and restore the licence across devices.
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Specification
Read the primary specification for WebRTC for the authoritative protocol details. The interactive scenario is a simplified teaching model, not a capture of your network.
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