aethex.live/DEPLOYMENT_CHECKLIST.md

🚀 Deployment Checklist for aethex.live

Use this checklist to launch your live streaming platform to production.

Pre-Launch

Streaming Infrastructure

• Streaming provider account created (Cloudflare/Mux/AWS)
• RTMP ingest URL obtained
• HLS playback URL obtained
• OBS Studio installed and configured
• Test stream successfully running
• Stream quality settings optimized (1080p/720p)
• Backup streaming key secured

Frontend Configuration

• .env.local created with all variables
• NEXT_PUBLIC_STREAM_URL set correctly
• Brand name updated in app/page.tsx
• Favicon replaced in app/
• Social links updated in config
• Color scheme customized (if desired)
• All tests passing locally
• Mobile responsiveness verified

Backend Setup (Optional but Recommended)

• Database chosen and provisioned
• Authentication provider selected
• Chat backend implemented
  • Firebase / WebSocket / Pusher configured
  • Rate limiting enabled
  • Moderation tools ready
• API routes tested
• CORS configured properly
• Error logging set up

Deployment

Vercel Deployment

• GitHub repository created and pushed
• Vercel account connected to GitHub
• Project imported to Vercel
• Environment variables added to Vercel:
  • NEXT_PUBLIC_STREAM_URL
  • Any API keys
  • Database URLs
  • Authentication secrets
• Production build successful
• Preview deployment tested

Domain Configuration

• Custom domain purchased (aethex.live)
• Domain added in Vercel dashboard
• DNS records updated:
  • A record or CNAME pointing to Vercel
  • SSL certificate issued (auto by Vercel)
• HTTPS working correctly
• Redirects configured (www → non-www)

Performance & Monitoring

• Analytics integrated (Vercel/Google/Plausible)
• Error tracking set up (Sentry/LogRocket)
• Performance monitoring enabled
• Uptime monitoring configured
• CDN caching verified
• Image optimization enabled

Post-Launch

Testing

• Stream loads on desktop browsers
• Stream loads on mobile devices
• Chat functionality working
• Viewer count updating
• All links working
• Social sharing working
• SEO metadata correct

Security

• Environment variables secured (not in git)
• API routes protected
• Rate limiting active
• CORS properly configured
• Authentication working (if implemented)
• Admin access secured

Content & Community

• Stream schedule created
• Social media accounts set up
• Community guidelines posted
• Announcement made
• Discord/Chat community ready

Optimization

• lighthouse score > 90
• Page load time < 3s
• Stream latency optimized
• Mobile experience smooth
• Caching strategy implemented

Backup & Recovery

• Database backups automated
• Stream recording enabled (if needed)
• Disaster recovery plan documented
• Alternative streaming setup ready
• Contact info for critical services saved

Growth Features (Future)

Phase 2

• VOD (Video on Demand) archives
• User registration and profiles
• Multi-channel support
• Enhanced chat (emotes, badges)
• Mobile app (PWA or native)

Phase 3

• Subscriptions & memberships
• Donations/tips integration
• Private/premium streams
• Advanced analytics dashboard
• Stream clips & highlights

Phase 4

• Multi-streaming (simulcast)
• Co-streaming features
• Stream overlays & widgets
• API for third-party integrations
• White-label options

📊 Success Metrics

Track these KPIs:

• Concurrent viewers
• Average watch time
• Chat messages per minute
• New vs returning visitors
• Stream uptime percentage
• Mobile vs desktop split

🛟 Emergency Contacts

Document these for quick access:

• Streaming provider support: ________________
• Hosting provider support: ________________
• DNS provider support: ________________
• Database provider support: ________________
• Your team contacts: ________________

🎉 Launch!

When all critical items are checked:

1. Do a final test stream
2. Announce the launch
3. Monitor the first stream closely
4. Collect user feedback
5. Iterate and improve

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Ready to go live? Double-check the "Pre-Launch" and "Deployment" sections, then hit that stream button! 🎥✨