Various on-demand movie and tv 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 called the worldwide web. One term that is practically a household term is streaming. The concept of streaming isn’t new. Radio and television 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 tv shows.

One statistic which will 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 improve by 60% within the next 2 years.

To clarify, you can find two types of video streaming – live and on-demand. Live streaming is viewed over the internet simultaneously as a camera captures and digitally encodes the event. Progressive streaming will be the type of streaming that OTT streaming providers utilize. On-demand videos are compressed files that are delivered by a streaming server. When an end-user wishes to stream a movie, for example, 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 be certain a great viewing experience. The streamed content just isn’t 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 service provider.

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 somewhere in which you can access it whenever you wish – usually on your hard drive. Ordinarily, 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’s 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 important to note that downloaded files can contain viruses and malware, so make sure that you trust any go source from that you download a file.

Media players can 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 cost-free or premium media player that the streaming provider recommends. If you wish to watch on your television, you will need to utilize a gaming console, Blu-ray player, internet-enabled television set, or perhaps a streaming media player that is linked to your television and your home wireless network. It is critical to ensure that your particular 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 even more choices are available to consumers.