With online radio hosting, people and organizations can use a hosting server to transmit audio content live or pre-recorded via the internet. It sends audio data from your broadcasting program to a streaming server, which then sends it out to listeners all over the world using a media player.
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an Online Radio Station
- Pick a type of material and a format, like music, conversation, news, or specialty content.
- Choose a radio hosting service, such as Centova Cast, SonicPanel, or AzuraCast.
- Use broadcasting technologies like BUTT, Mixxx, or SAM Broadcaster to upload or stream content.
- Make a link to your website or player and embed the player for simple access.
- Use directories, social media, and email to get the word out about your station.
How do you get a license for an online radio station?
Depending on where they are, online radio stations need to have music licenses to stay lawful. For music performance rights in the U.S., use ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or SoundExchange.
In the UK, use PPL and PRS for music. Depending on what you’re making, you might require both performance rights and mechanical rights. Always go to a music rights group or an entertainment lawyer in your area.
The best online radio hosting companies in 2025
- Platform Features Best For Price (Starting)
- SonicPanel: Auto DJ, FTP, SSL, and WHMCS integrationResellers and pros$15 a month
- Centova Cast: Schedule, AutoDJ, analytics, and an easy-to-use interfacePeople who are new to it and those that do it for fun$10 a month
- AzuraCast: a free, open-source, powerful dashboard Programmers and developers Free / Self-host
- Ucartz radio hosting
Questions that are asked a lot (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need a license for things that aren’t music?
You don’t need a license if you just communicate. You need streaming rights for music.
Q2: Is it possible to make money by hosting a radio show?
Yes. You can make money through adverts, sponsorships, contributions, or affiliate connections.
Q3: How much bandwidth does online radio need?
A stream that is 128 kbps utilizes around 1 GB of data per listener every 17 hours.
Q4: Is it possible to host from home?
Yes. You can host from anywhere as long as you have a stable internet connection and broadcasting software.
