Various on-demand movie and television services popping up the final couple of 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 is practically a household term is streaming. The concept of streaming isn’t new. Radio and tv are streamed. Streaming is, in a nutshell, a delivery method for media. We can stream anything that may be digitalized, including music, movies, sports, and television shows.

One statistic that could surprise lots of people is 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 via the internet simultaneously as a camera captures and digitally encodes the event. Progressive streaming will be the sort of streaming that OTT streaming providers utilize. On-demand videos are compressed files that will be delivered by a streaming server. When an end-user wishes to stream a film, as an example, they will select the movie 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 ensure a great viewing experience. The streamed content is not saved on the end user’s hard drive. In the event the content is streamed, it cannot be accessed again unless the file is requested again from the streaming vendor.

Besides streaming, there is another delivery method of these compressed files, which is called downloading. When you buy a movie, song or TV program, you download the file from a web server (rather than a streaming server), and also you save the file someplace in which you can access it whenever you wish – usually on your hard drive. Commonly, 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 is a rental, then the OTT provider generally gives a specified time frame read this blog post from Jit the time of rental by which to view the content prior to the file deletes itself. It is important to be aware that downloaded files can contain viruses and malware, so ensure that you trust any source from that you download a file.

Media players will take on many forms whenever 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 a streaming media player that’s linked to your television and your home wireless network. It’s vital to make certain 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 as well as more choices are available to consumers.