You want to control your OBS Studio streams from your phone or another computer without touching the main setup. Download and Install OBS WebSocket Plugin to make that happen. This tool lets you switch scenes, adjust audio, and start recordings over your network. Streamers and video creators rely on it for hands-free operation during live sessions.
One of the most important OBS plugins, WebSocket turns your OBS into a network-friendly app. You connect devices through a simple server. No more running back and forth. Let's break it down. We start with the basics, then move to setup steps, and end with real-world uses.
What Is OBS WebSocket and Why Do You Need It?
OBS Studio handles recording and streaming with ease. You add sources like cameras and games. But what if you need control from across the room? OBS WebSocket answers that.
This plugin creates a WebSocket server inside OBS. External apps talk to it over the internet or local network. You send commands like "switch to scene two" or "mute the mic." It responds in real time.
Here is why people choose it:
- Remote access: Run your setup from a tablet during events.
- Automation: Link it to scripts for timed changes.
- Team work: Let co-hosts adjust settings without crowding the desk.
Since OBS version 28, WebSocket comes built-in. Older versions need a separate download. Either way, you gain the same power. Thousands of users integrate it daily for smoother workflows.
System Requirements for OBS WebSocket Setup
Before you dive in, check your gear. OBS WebSocket works on most setups, but match these specs to avoid snags.
Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
OBS Studio Version | 27.0 or higher | Latest (30+) |
Operating System | Windows 10, macOS 10.15, Ubuntu 20.04 | Windows 11, macOS 14, Ubuntu 22.04 |
Network | Local Wi-Fi or Ethernet | Stable Gigabit connection |
RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB or more |
Port Availability | TCP port 4455 open | Firewall allows inbound 4455 |
These come from official OBS docs. If your OBS runs below 28, plan to download and install OBS WebSocket Plugin right away. Update OBS first for built-in support. Test your network speed too. Slow links cause delays in commands.
How to Download and Install OBS WebSocket Plugin Step by Step
Ready to get it running? Follow these steps. We cover both built-in and manual installs. Pick what fits your OBS version.
Step 1: Update OBS Studio
Launch OBS. Go to Help > Check for Updates. Install any patches. Restart OBS. This ensures you have the latest features, including WebSocket if on version 28+.
Step 2: Check If It's Already Installed
Open Tools menu in OBS. Look for "WebSocket Server Settings." If you see it, skip to configuration. No menu? Proceed to download.
Step 3: Download OBS WebSocket Plugin
Head to the official GitHub page. Click Releases. Grab the file for your OS:
- Windows: obs-websocket-5.x.x-Windows.exe or .zip
- macOS: obs-websocket-5.x.x-macOS.pkg
- Linux: obs-websocket-5.x.x-Ubuntu64.deb
Only download from here to avoid fakes. Files match OBS 27 and below. For 28+, stick with built-in.
Step 4: Install the Plugin
Windows Users:
- Run the .exe file.
- Follow prompts. It places files in your OBS folder (usually C:\Program Files\obs-studio).
- Or, unzip to the OBS root if using .zip.
macOS Users:
- Double-click the .pkg.
- Enter your password when asked.
- Drag to Applications if needed.
Linux Users:
- Open terminal.
- Run: sudo dpkg -i obs-websocket-5.x.x-Ubuntu64.deb
- Fix dependencies with sudo apt-get install -f
Restart OBS after install. The Tools menu now shows WebSocket options.
Step 5: Verify Installation
In OBS, go to Tools > WebSocket Server Settings. Check "Enable WebSocket server." Click Apply. A green status means success. If errors pop, see troubleshooting below.
Download and Install OBS WebSocket Plugin takes under five minutes. You now have the foundation for remote control.
Configure OBS WebSocket for Secure Remote Access
Setup alone won't cut it. Configure to keep things safe and smooth.
Open Tools > WebSocket Server Settings.
- Enable Server: Tick the box. OBS starts listening on port 4455.
- Set Password: Click "Show Connect Info." Generate or enter a strong password. Write it down.
- Change Port if Needed: Default 4455 works for most. Avoid conflicts with other apps.
- IPv4 Only: Check this for local networks. IPv6 can confuse some devices.
- Apply Changes: Hit OK. Restart OBS.
Your server runs. Test locally: Open a browser to ws://localhost:4455. It should connect.
Security matters. Use passwords always. Block unknown IPs in your firewall. This stops outsiders from hijacking your stream.
For advanced tweaks, edit via command line:
- obs --websocket_port=4456 (changes port)
- obs --websocket_password=yourpass
These overrides help in scripts.
Connect a Remote Device to OBS WebSocket
Time to link your phone or laptop. You need a client app. Popular ones include StreamControl (mobile) or OBS Remote (web).
Using a Mobile App for Remote Control
Download StreamControl from Google Play or App Store. It supports OBS WebSocket out of the box.
- Open the app.
- Tap Settings > OBS Connection.
- Enter your PC's IP (find it in Command Prompt: ipconfig).
- Port: 4455
- Password: From OBS connect info.
- Connect.
The app shows your scenes. Tap to switch. Adjust volumes with sliders.
Web-Based Remote Control
Try OBS Web, a free browser tool. Load it at github.com/Niek/obs-web.
- Enter IP:4455
- Input password.
- Load scenes.
It mirrors your OBS interface. Drag sliders for mutes. Perfect for quick checks.
Both methods use the same protocol. Commands fly over WebSocket for instant response.
Basic Commands to Control OBS Remotely
Master the essentials. These cover 80% of daily tasks.
- Switch Scenes: Select "Gameplay" from your remote app. OBS jumps there.
- Start/Stop Stream: Hit the stream button on your phone. No desk needed.
- Mute Sources: Tap the mic icon. Audio drops right away.
- Adjust Volume: Slide to 50%. Changes apply live.
For power users, send JSON requests. Example via browser console:
ws = new WebSocket("ws://your-ip:4455"); ws.onopen = () => ws.send(JSON.stringify({op: 1, d: {rpcVersion: 1}}));This authenticates. Follow with {"requestType": "SetCurrentScene", "requestData": {"sceneName": "Intro"}} to switch.
The protocol lists hundreds more. Start simple. Build from there.
Advanced Uses: Automate Your Workflow with OBS WebSocket
Go beyond basics. Integrate for pro setups.
Script Automation
Use Python with obs-websocket-py library. Install via pip: pip install obs-websocket-py.
Sample script:
from obsws_python import obsws, requests ws = obsws(host='127.0.0.1', port=4455, password='yourpass') ws.connect() ws.call(requests.SetCurrentScene('Outro')) ws.disconnect()Run this at stream end. Scenes change on cue.
Hardware Integration
Pair with Stream Deck. Elgato's app talks WebSocket natively. Assign buttons for transitions.
Foot pedals work too. Send hotkey triggers over the network.
Multi-Device Sync
Run OBS on PC, control from iPad and Android. All hit the same server. Set unique passwords per device for safety.
These tricks save time. Streamers cut errors by 50% with automation.
Troubleshooting Common OBS WebSocket Issues
Problems happen. Fix them fast.
Connection Fails
- Check IP and port match.
- Disable firewall temporarily. Add rule for 4455.
- Restart OBS and client.
Plugin Won't Load
If on OBS 28+, skip download. Delete old files from obs-plugins folder. Run Help > Check File Integrity.
No Tools Menu Option
Update OBS. Reinstall if needed. Matches version 30 issues reported.
IPv6 vs IPv4 Errors
Force IPv4 in settings. Use 127.0.0.1 for local tests.
Issue | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
Auth Error | Reset password in connect info. |
Port Conflict | Change to 4456. Update clients. |
Slow Response | Check Wi-Fi signal. Wire if possible. |
Events Missing | Verify protocol version (5.0+). |
Log errors in OBS (View > Logs). Share on forums for help.
Best Practices for OBS WebSocket Remote Control
Keep it reliable.
- Backup scenes before tests.
- Use local network only for low latency.
- Update OBS monthly.
- Test commands pre-stream.
Monitor with tools like Wireshark for traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions About OBS WebSocket
Does OBS WebSocket Work on Mobile?
Yes. Apps like StreamControl connect via Wi-Fi. Ensure same network.
Can I Use OBS WebSocket Without a Password?
You can, but do not. It leaves your stream open to attacks.
What If I Have OBS Version 26?
Download and Install OBS WebSocket Plugin version 4.9.1-compat from GitHub. Upgrade OBS soon.
Is OBS WebSocket Free?
Fully open-source. No costs.
How Do I Update the Plugin?
Re-download from releases. Replace files. Restart.
Can OBS WebSocket Control Multiple Instances?
One server per OBS. Run separate ports for multiples.
What Ports Does It Use?
Default 4455 TCP. Open in router for remote access (use VPN).
These cover top searches. More in official protocol docs.