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If FFmpeg reports Invalid data found when processing input while you are looping a stream to YouTube Live, the message identifies an invalid-data error category—not the exact cause or the stage that failed. First probe the exact input with ffprobe and inspect the full FFmpeg log to find where the error begins. Only after confirming the input is readable should you tune YouTube’s encoder settings.
What does “Invalid data found when processing input” mean?
FFmpeg’s error-code reference uses this wording for its invalid-data error. It does not, by itself, say whether FFmpeg failed while opening an input, decoding or filtering media, or setting up output. The message alone cannot identify a specific cause. FFmpeg error-code reference
That distinction matters: YouTube bitrate or keyframe settings concern the outgoing stream, while an input that FFmpeg cannot read must be investigated at the input stage. Do not assume the loop option caused the error just because it appears in the command.
Does -stream_loop cause the error?
The error wording and available documentation do not establish a loop-specific cause or fix. A command may include -stream_loop while the actual problem lies in the input, a decoding or filtering step, or output setup. Locate the first error in the complete log before changing the command.
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Diagnose the failure in order
1. Capture the command and complete log
- Save the exact FFmpeg command, including the input argument and all options. Redact any stream key before sharing it.
- Capture output from the beginning of the run, not only the final error line. Look for the first error and note whether it appears while opening the input, processing media, or opening the output.
- Record the FFmpeg version and build by running
ffmpeg -version. A precise diagnosis may require this alongside the command and full log.
The generic error category does not reveal which stage failed. The surrounding messages are essential.
2. Probe the exact input
Run ffprobe on the same file or URL passed to FFmpeg:
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ffprobe -hide_banner "INPUT"Replace INPUT with the exact input path or URL. Check whether the output identifies a container and the audio and video streams you expect. Save the output for diagnosis.
If probing fails, check whether the input is accessible and complete, whether it actually contains media, whether its format is supported, and whether the input protocol or URL is valid. Incomplete or damaged data, unsupported media, and non-media content are possible explanations for a failed probe; they are not diagnoses of any particular stream. See the FFmpeg Cookbook troubleshooting guidance (last updated September 24, 2026).
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If probing succeeds, that establishes that FFprobe can recognize the input; it does not guarantee that the whole file will decode or that every later processing stage will succeed. Use the FFmpeg log to locate the first failing stage rather than changing YouTube output settings at random.
3. Check the outgoing stream against YouTube’s settings
Once the input is readable, compare the actual output configuration with YouTube’s current live encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions. YouTube recommends RTMPS; it also accepts RTMP. Its published guidance calls for constant bitrate (CBR), H.264, H.265/HEVC, or AV1 video, up to 60 fps, and AAC or MP3 audio. Confirm codec-specific details against YouTube’s page for the codec and mode you use.
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- Keyframes: YouTube recommends a 2-second keyframe interval and says not to exceed 4 seconds.
- Advanced video guidance: YouTube lists square pixels, progressive scan, two B-frames, one reference frame, CABAC, and Rec. 709 for SDR. Verify which details apply to your chosen codec and mode.
- Audio guidance: YouTube lists 44.1 kHz stereo or 48 kHz 5.1 sampling guidance. Match the setting to your audio configuration.
The H.264 bitrate values below are YouTube’s published recommendations in Mbps, not a universal fix for an input-parsing error. Use the row matching the resolution and frame rate you actually send.
| Output resolution and frame rate | Minimum bitrate | Recommended bitrate |
|---|---|---|
| 2160p (4K) at 60 fps | 14 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| 2160p (4K) at 30 fps | 11 Mbps | 42 Mbps |
| 1440p at 60 fps | 8 Mbps | 34 Mbps |
| 1440p at 30 fps | 7 Mbps | 21 Mbps |
| 1080p at 60 fps | 6 Mbps | 17 Mbps |
| 1080p at 30 fps | 5 Mbps | 14 Mbps |
| 720p at 60 fps | 3 Mbps | 8 Mbps |
| 720p at 30 fps | 3 Mbps | 8 Mbps |
| 480p at 30 fps | 0.4 Mbps | 4 Mbps |
| 360p at 30 fps | 0.4 Mbps | 4 Mbps |
YouTube recommends checking your upload speed and testing with representative audio and video motion while monitoring stream health. Leave enough upload capacity for the chosen bitrate rather than treating the recommendation as proof that an input error will be resolved.
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Common symptoms and next checks
ffprobecannot identify the input: Check that the path or URL is correct and accessible, the file download or copy completed, the content is media, and the format and protocol are supported.ffprobeidentifies streams, but FFmpeg later errors: Find the first error in the complete log. It may arise during decoding, filtering, or output setup; the final invalid-data message does not identify which.- YouTube reports an ingest or stream-health problem: After verifying input readability, check the outgoing protocol, codec, CBR mode, frame rate, keyframe interval, resolution, and matching bitrate recommendation.
- You still cannot isolate the cause: Gather the exact command,
ffmpeg -versionoutput,ffprobeoutput for the input, and complete FFmpeg log around the first error. Remove or redact the YouTube stream key before posting logs publicly.
Copyright and continuous-stream checks
Technical encoder compliance does not establish that you have the rights to stream the media or that a channel meets YouTube’s rules. Before looping a recording, confirm you have permission to use its video and audio and review the current platform rules that apply to your content and live stream. A configuration change cannot resolve a rights or policy issue.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep uploaded videos running on a YouTube channel around the clock, StreamNeo is a cloud alternative to running FFmpeg on a home computer. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not broadcast a live camera feed.
- Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on.
- Each slot streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60 fps, at one flat price per slot rather than quality-based tiers.
- It automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card required (one free day per account).
The monthly option is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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