Various on-demand movie and television services popping up the last few years have introduced some new terminology to many of us who are not technologically savvy, and who are just beginning to explore the vast, uncharted territories known as the worldwide web. One term that’s practically a household term is streaming. The concept of streaming is not new. Radio and tv are streamed. Streaming is, in a nutshell, a delivery method for media. We can stream anything that will be digitalized, including music, see movies online, sports, and television shows.

One statistic which could surprise many individuals is the fact that 30% of all internet traffic today is from Netflix streams alone. And over-the-top (OTT) media consumption from distributors like Netflix, Hulu Plus and SuperPass is projected to increase by 60% over the following two years.

To clarify, you can find two types of video streaming – live and on-demand. Live streaming is viewed on the web simultaneously as a camera captures and digitally encodes the event. Progressive streaming is the type of streaming that OTT streaming providers utilize. On-demand videos are compressed files that can be delivered by a streaming server. When an end-user wishes to stream a film, one example is they will select the film and click on a play button. The OTT vendor will then deliver the requested film through specialized software called a streaming server. The streaming server will assess what is happening on the end user’s media player and make adjustments called buffering to make sure a good viewing experience. The streamed content isn’t saved on the end user’s hard drive. In the event the content is streamed, it can’t be accessed again unless the file is requested again from the streaming company.

Besides streaming, there is the one other delivery method for these compressed files, which is called downloading. Whenever you purchase a movie, song or TV program, you download the file from a web server (as opposed to a streaming server), and you save the file someplace in which you can access it any time you wish – usually on your hard drive. Many times, at least a portion of the download must be complete before you can begin viewing the content without interruptions.

Downloads may either be rentals or purchases. If it really is a rental, then the OTT provider generally gives a specified time period from the time of rental through which to view the content prior to the file deletes itself. It’s vital to note that downloaded files can contain viruses and malware, so ensure that you trust any source from that you just download a file.

Media players may take on many forms when you stream or view your downloaded purchase. If you watch the content on your computer, you will probably utilize the media player that came with your operating system, or you may download a no cost or premium media player that the streaming supplier recommends. If you wish to watch on your television, you shall need to utilize a gaming console, Blu-ray player, internet-enabled television set, or perhaps a streaming media player which is linked to your television and your home wireless network. It’s important to make sure that your intended media player is supported by your OTT provider.

Streaming is with no doubt here to stay as part of our entertainment options. Watch as the technology continues to improve and many more options are available to consumers.