What is buffering in the context of streaming?

Buffering, in the context of streaming, refers to the pre-loading of data into memory to ensure smooth playback without interruptions. This process involves downloading a certain amount of data ahead of time so that when the user begins to watch or listen, there is sufficient content stored temporarily that can be accessed quickly. This helps mitigate delays caused by network speed fluctuations or other interruptions during the streaming process, allowing for a seamless viewing or listening experience.

The other choices do not accurately describe buffering. Immediate playback of data implies that data is played as it is received, but that approach can lead to interruptions if the network cannot deliver data fast enough. Storing data locally before playback begins is a part of certain playback processes but does not encompass the ongoing data management that buffering does. Reducing the quality of data transferred is unrelated to buffering; rather, it describes a different method used to manage streaming in cases of poor connection but does not capture the essence of buffering itself.