Source Download Protocol. Always download streaming software from the official source. Avoid third-party "mirrors."

Official download sources:

• OBS Studio: obsproject.com (only)
• Streamlabs Desktop: streamlabs.com/streamlabs-desktop
• Twitch Studio: twitch.tv/studio (linked from your Twitch dashboard)
• XSplit Broadcaster: xsplit.com
• Lightstream: golightstream.com (no local download — cloud-based)

Why this matters:

• Third-party download sites often bundle adware, spyware, or modified versions
• Modified versions can include keyloggers (capture your stream credentials)
• Older or "free premium" versions floating around might miss critical security patches
• Verifying download integrity protects your streaming credentials and channel access

Verification steps:

• Verify URL matches official site (avoid typos like "obs-project.com" or "OBS-studio.net")
• Check Windows/macOS publisher signature on the installer (must match the verified publisher)
• Compare file hash to the official hash if you're paranoid (most projects publish SHA-256 hashes)
• Avoid "free premium" or "cracked" versions of paid software (Patreon, etc.)

The discipline: 30 seconds to verify the download source. Saves potential channel hijacking incidents.

Streaming software runs with significant access to your system and credentials. Treat the download source as security-critical.