Various on-demand movie and television services popping up the very last number 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 called the worldwide web. One term that's practically a household term is streaming. The concept of streaming is not new. Radio and television are streamed. Streaming is, in a nutshell, a delivery method for media. We can stream anything that can be digitalized, including music, movies, sports, and television 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 increase by 60% within the next a couple of years.

To clarify, there are actually 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 will be the type of streaming that OTT streaming providers utilize. On-demand videos are compressed files which are delivered by a streaming server. When an end-user wishes to stream a movie, for instance, they're going to 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 make sure a great viewing experience. The streamed content just isn't saved on the end user's hard drive. After the content is streamed, it cannot be accessed again unless the file is requested again from the streaming company.

Besides streaming, there is the one other delivery method of these compressed files, which is called downloading. When you buy a watching full movie, song or TV program, you download the file from a web server (in place of a streaming server), and you save the file somewhere in which you can access it any time you wish - usually on your hard drive. On a regular basis, at least a portion of the download has to 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 period of time from the time of rental by which to view the content before the file deletes itself. You need to observe that downloaded files can contain viruses and malware, so make certain that you trust any source from that you just 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 might download a zero cost or premium media player that the streaming service 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 connected to your television and also your home wireless network. It's important to make sure that your particular intended media player is supported by your OTT provider.

Streaming is without having a doubt here to stay as part of our entertainment options. Watch as the technology continues to improve and many more options will be available to consumers.