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First find out which part stopped: the encoder process, its connection to YouTube, YouTube’s ingest, or the VPS. Match the encoder log, YouTube Live Control Room health messages, and server metrics to the exact time the public stream stopped; the duration alone does not identify the cause.
Start by identifying what stopped
Write down the failure time in UTC and check what YouTube showed at that moment: ended, offline, or waiting for encoder input. Then compare three sources of evidence—the encoder log, YouTube Live Control Room messages and stream health, and VPS metrics. This helps distinguish a stopped process from a live process that lost its connection, an ingest/configuration error, or a host or network interruption.
| What you observe | Most relevant checks |
|---|---|
| Encoder process exited or restarted | Encoder and service/process-manager logs; CPU, memory, disk, and network metrics around the failure time. |
| Encoder is still running, but OBS reports dropped frames or disconnection | Connection stability, packet loss or interruptions, and whether sustained upload capacity can support the configured bitrate. |
| YouTube reports an encoder, ingest, or stream-key error | Live Control Room messages, ingest URL, and the current stream key. |
| VPS or network interruption is suspected | Correlate Hetzner Status with VM and network metrics at the same time; a service-agreement figure alone does not prove provider fault. |
Work through the checks in order
- Record the failure state. Note the UTC time and whether YouTube marked the stream ended, offline, or waiting for encoder input. Preserve any visible health messages.
- Inspect the encoder log at that timestamp. Determine whether the process exited, restarted, reported an error, or continued sending. If it stopped, review the service or process manager and CPU, memory, disk, and network metrics. The available documentation does not establish a Hetzner-specific OBS or FFmpeg service configuration, so treat these as diagnostic checks rather than a provider-specific fix.
- Check YouTube’s stream health and your local recording. Compare YouTube’s messages with the encoder log and check whether the local archive is intact and still growing. YouTube recommends monitoring stream health and checking the local archive.
- If OBS shows dropped frames, test the connection and bitrate. OBS attributes dropped frames or intermittent disconnections to an unstable connection to the remote ingest server or one that cannot sustain the selected bitrate; excessive drops can disconnect the stream. Compare the configured bitrate with measured, sustained upload capacity and investigate packet loss or connection interruptions. YouTube likewise advises choosing a quality the connection can reliably deliver, testing before the event, and monitoring health during it.
- Verify the ingest setup when YouTube reports an ingest error. Check that the encoder uses the intended ingest URL and current stream key in Live Control Room. YouTube recommends getting a new key and updating the encoder for certain encoder start errors. A key rotation is not documented as a universal remedy for a stream that ran successfully for hours before stopping.
- Compare encoder settings with YouTube’s guidance. YouTube recommends CBR, a two-second keyframe interval (do not exceed four seconds), and RTMPS for encrypted ingestion. Test the exact setup before relying on it for a long session.
- Check for a relevant Hetzner incident. Compare the incident timing on Hetzner Status with the VM’s host and network metrics. Hetzner’s Cloud and vServer terms exclude some customer-software/configuration failures and external network interruptions from the SLA definition of unavailability; those terms do not establish what happened to a particular VPS.
- Preserve evidence before changing settings. Save encoder logs and the local recording before changing several variables at once. Changing one thing at a time makes it easier to see whether a specific adjustment addresses the failure.
Do not confuse a missing archive with a stopped stream
YouTube says streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured as archives; streams under 12 hours can be automatically archived. That is an archive-capture limitation, not evidence that YouTube automatically stops a live stream at 12 hours, and it does not explain a stream ending after only a few hours. YouTube’s encoder setup guidance describes ending a stream as stopping the content sent by the encoder.
What Hetzner’s SLA does—and does not—tell you
Hetzner’s current Cloud and vServer Service Agreement, accessed 2026-10-03, states a 99.9% monthly availability commitment, expressed as “commercially reasonable efforts” for Cloud Servers. Its availability definition and exclusions concern the operational host or VM and specified causes of interruption. This monthly figure is not a guarantee that an individual YouTube stream will stay connected, nor does it identify the cause of a particular interruption. Use status information and VM/network metrics alongside encoder and YouTube evidence.
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#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the aim is to keep uploaded documentaries playing on a YouTube channel 24/7, StreamNeo is a cloud option rather than another VPS diagnosis: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. It streams the files as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo, or start the free first day.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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