# Core Settings

General Goal: The Core Settings section provides the essential technical foundation for any Pixel Streaming project. These configurations ensure that Unreal Engine communicates correctly with the streaming hardware, handles web-based inputs (JSON), and maintains optimal visual performance across different devices and network conditions.

#### Sub-pages:

* [Plugin Setup](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/plugin)
  * Description: A guide to enabling and configuring the mandatory Pixel Streaming plugins within Unreal Engine to unlock cloud-streaming capabilities.
* [Pixel Streaming Input (JSON Messages)](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/pixel-streaming-input-json-messages)
  * Description: Learn how the engine interprets data packets from the web. This page covers the protocol for sending and receiving custom JSON commands between the browser and your Blueprints.
* [Resolution Optimization](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/resolution)
  * Description: Best practices for setting internal render resolutions to balance high-fidelity visuals with low-latency streaming performance.
* [Camera & Aspect Ratio](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/camera-aspect-ratio)
  * Description: Instructions on configuring cameras to handle various screen shapes (Desktop vs. Mobile) without stretching or distorting the view.
* [Framerate Management](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/framerate)
  * Description: How to lock and optimize your project's FPS to ensure a smooth, stutter-free experience for the end-user.
* [Mouse Control](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/mouse)
  * Description: Configuration for software vs. hardware cursors and ensuring mouse transparency and capture work correctly within a browser window.
* [Touch Input Setup for Mobile](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/touch-input-setup-for-mobile)
  * Description: A specialized guide for enabling multi-touch gestures and mobile-specific interactions for users streaming on smartphones and tablets.
* [DirectX Version](https://docs.arcware.cloud/unreal-engine-setup/set-up-pixel-streaming-in-your-own-project/core-settings/directx-version)
  * Description: Critical requirements for choosing the right RHI (DirectX 11 vs. 12) to ensure compatibility with Arcware’s server-side GPU encoders.

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#### Why these Core Settings matter:

Unlike a local game, a Pixel Streaming application must be "aware" that its display and inputs are coming from a remote web browser. Skipping any of these steps can lead to input lag, distorted visuals, or connection failures. Mastering these settings is the first step toward a production-ready cloud application.