The Real-time Transport Protocol carries information useful for delivering timed media, including sequence numbers and timestamps. Receivers can use that information to order packets and coordinate playback. RTP does not itself guarantee bandwidth, prevent packet loss or provide a complete subscription system. It is often used alongside other control and transport protocols.
A practical example
A receiver handling a live audio stream can notice a missing sequence number and use timestamps to place later packets on its playback timeline. The application still decides how to conceal the missing sound or handle late arrivals.
A common misunderstanding
Do not confuse RTP timestamps with the wall-clock time displayed in a programme guide. They serve media timing, and their interpretation depends on the stream and associated signalling.
Related terms
Further reading
Stable technical definition. Editorial approach