Facebook Live allows users to broadcast live video streams to their followers and friends on Facebook. It provides an easy way to share moments in real-time and engage with your audience. However, not everyone has access to the Facebook Live feature. There are certain requirements and restrictions in place for going live on Facebook.
Facebook Live Requirements
Here are the requirements for broadcasting live video on Facebook:
Facebook Page
In order to go live, you need to have a Facebook Page and be an admin of that Page. The live video broadcast will be posted on your Facebook Page. Personal profiles are not allowed to go live – only official Facebook Pages. If you don’t already have a Page, you’ll need to create one first before broadcasting live.
Minimum Number of Followers
Your Facebook Page needs to have a minimum number of followers before you can go live. The exact number varies and Facebook does not publish the minimum. However, most accounts need at least 100 followers to access Facebook Live. This requirement is in place to ensure that live videos reach a minimum viewership.
No Restrictions on Account
If your Facebook account or Page has any restrictions in place, such as being in Facebook jail, you may not be able to go live. Any active restrictions, bans or blocks can prevent you from broadcasting. Make sure your account is in good standing with no restrictions before your scheduled live stream.
Strong Internet Connection
You’ll need a stable internet connection to maintain a quality video broadcast. Use an internet speed of at least 3-5Mbps upload for optimal video quality. Wifi is recommended over mobile data when broadcasting live. Testing your connection ahead of time can help avoid technical difficulties.
Updated Facebook App
Going live requires the latest version of the Facebook app. Make sure to update your Facebook app to the newest available version before your scheduled broadcast. Using an outdated version of the app can prevent access to Facebook Live.
Common Restrictions on Facebook Live Access
If you meet all the requirements listed above and still can’t access Facebook Live, here are some common restrictions that may be in place:
Location Restrictions
In some countries, Facebook Live is not available or only allowed for certain Pages and profiles. Location restrictions are often in place due to local laws and regulations. Make sure Facebook Live is available in your region before trying to broadcast.
Copyright Strikes
Pages that have received copyright strikes for things like playing music in their videos may lose access to Facebook Live. Multiple copyright violations can result in temporary or permanent loss of broadcasting abilities.
Age & Identity Restrictions
Facebook requires users to be at least 18 years old to go live alone. Teens aged 13-17 can go live with adult supervision. Pages representing businesses, organizations and pets should have at least one admin who is 18+ to gain live stream access.
Disabled by Facebook
In some cases, Facebook may disable the live feature for a particular account based on violation of its Community Standards. Things like nudity, violence or hate speech can result in losing live stream privileges.
Ways to Regain Access to Facebook Live
If you’ve lost the ability to go live on Facebook, here are some steps to try to restore broadcasting access:
Request a Review
You can submit an appeal to Facebook to request another look at your situation. Often restrictions are temporary. Asking for a review may resolve issues if they were imposed incorrectly.
Boost Your Page
Try running an ad campaign to get more followers on your Facebook Page. Getting above the minimum required number of followers can sometimes restore live stream abilities.
Delete Offending Content
Removing any content that violated Facebook’s rules can help regain access. Delete old posts or videos that showed inappropriate content or copyright infringement.
Serve Restriction Period
For bans related to multiple copyright strikes or community standards violations, you may need to wait out a restriction period before being able to go live again. Restriction durations vary based on offense severity.
Improve Content Quality
Posting high-quality, relevant and engaging content can demonstrate to Facebook that you should have your broadcasting abilities restored. Improving your overall Page content can help.
Best Practices for Going Live on Facebook
Once you meet the requirements and gain access to Facebook Live, follow these best practices for success:
Test Your Connection
Always do a test broadcast first to check your internet speeds, camera angles, lighting and audio. Work out any kinks beforehand.
Promote Your Broadcast
Get the word out on all your other social channels. Let viewers know when to tune in to your live show. Promoting ahead builds viewership.
Interact With Viewers
Engage with comments from viewers in real-time as they watch. Responding to them helps build a connection.
Reuse Content
Download your live videos to reuse on other platforms. Upload them to YouTube or embed them on your website. Repurposing content extends your reach.
Analyze Performance
Facebook provides live video insights like number of viewers and comments. Analyze these metrics after each broadcast to improve.
Troubleshooting Common Facebook Live Issues
If you run into problems while going live, try these troubleshooting tips:
Can’t Access Go Live Option
– Check account restrictions – resolve any active blocks or bans
– Make sure your app and device software are updated
– Switch from mobile data to high-speed wifi
Broadcast Not Starting
– Force quit and relaunch the Facebook app
– Restart your device
– Check internet connection – minimum 3-5Mbps upload speed needed
Choppy or Buffering Video
– Turn off other devices using your wifi network
– Move closer to your router if on wifi
– Reduce your video resolution and bitrate settings
Dropped Broadcast
– Switch apps if using a third-party broadcasting app
– Buy a dedicated mobile hotspot for more consistent connection
– Delete and reinstall the Facebook app
Conclusion
Facebook Live provides an engaging way to connect with your target audience in real-time. But you need to meet Facebook’s requirements for access and avoid restrictions in order to broadcast live successfully. Testing your set up, promoting your live streams, and troubleshooting issues can help you deliver high quality videos your viewers will love. Consistently creating compelling live content can build a dedicated community around your brand on Facebook.