I have Macromedia Flash MX (version 6.0).

I recently created a Flash video for a web site, by importing the video into
Flash and creating a .swf file. The original video was roughly 72MB in size,
and this converted to a .swf file of 4.5 MB.

I have only tested this over a broadband connection, and it doesn't take too
long to start playing on the web site, but I imagine it might take longer if
a user is using dial up. From what I have done, will this video be streaming
or is it all loading before it starts?

I have heard a bit about FLV files and creating a custom flash video player.
What is my best option for putting this video online (5/6 mins long)? Do I
need to create an FLV file to stream a video online?

If need be I can install a trial version of Flash MX 2004 or Flash 8.0.
http://www.macromedia.com/go/tryflash

Hopefully I will be able to upgrade to the new Macromedia suite soon.

Thanks,
Stephen

Well, I think FLV is the best way to go, since it really decrease the file
size, but I think you need some specific application to encode video in FLV.
 I
convert mine using Adobe After Effects, but I think you can, using QuickTime
wich can be downloaded freely (as for after fx).

For the streaming issue, I can't tell you, I'm really not sure.

BTW, you can simulate slow connection download with flash (at least, you can
with MX 2004). Once you test your movie, check in the menu, I dont remember
wich one, you will see "Simulate Download" and "Downlaod Settings" where you
can set the connection to test, from 14.4l to T1 to user defined. Cool featu
res!