What is an FLV?

An FLV file (Flash Video) is a container file format that was once widely used to deliver video content over the internet using Adobe Flash Player. Though less common today, you might still encounter FLV files, especially when dealing with older web videos.

What do FLV files do?

FLV files store video and audio data in a compressed format, making them suitable for streaming. They were designed to be lightweight and play smoothly within web browsers using the Flash Player plugin.

Where do FLV files come from?

• Older websites: Websites that used Flash Player for video playback often used FLV files.
• Video sharing platforms (historically): Platforms like YouTube once relied heavily on FLV, but have transitioned to newer formats.
• Downloaded videos: You might have downloaded FLV files in the past from various online sources.

Are FLV files safe?

Generally, yes. However, like any file downloaded from the internet, there’s always a risk of malware. It’s best to be cautious with FLV files from untrusted sources.

How to play an FLV file:

• VLC media player: VLC is a versatile media player that can play FLV files without needing Flash Player.
• Web browsers with Flash support (outdated): Older browsers or those with Flash Player enabled might still play FLV files, but this is not recommended due to security concerns.
• Convert to a modern format: Consider converting FLV files to more current formats like MP4 using a video converter tool. This will ensure compatibility with most devices and platforms.

Important note: Adobe Flash Player is no longer supported due to security vulnerabilities. It’s generally recommended to avoid using Flash and opt for modern video formats like MP4.