Video on demand

Video on demand (VOD) is a service that lets users choose and watch video content at a time they select, rather than following a fixed broadcast schedule.

Streaming media: Media delivered over a network for playback as data arrives, rather than only after a complete download. Streaming lets VOD begin playback before the full video file reaches the device.
Subscription video on demand: A VOD model that provides access to a catalog for a recurring fee. Subscribers choose titles from a library without paying separately for each viewing.
Near video on demand: A broadcast system that offers the same program on staggered schedules across multiple channels. It approximated on-demand choice before each viewer could start a program independently.
Broadcast television: Television programming transmitted to audiences according to a schedule over broadcast networks. VOD lets viewers choose programs and start times instead of following a channel schedule.
Content delivery network: A distributed network of servers that delivers digital content from locations closer to users. CDNs reduce distance and congestion when VOD services deliver popular videos.
Transactional video on demand: A VOD model in which viewers pay per title, usually to rent or purchase it. It offers individual films without requiring a continuing subscription.
Pay-per-view: A television service that charges viewers for access to a particular program or event. Pay-per-view established paid, title-specific viewing before widespread internet VOD.
Live streaming: The real-time delivery of audio or video as an event is happening. Live streaming centers on simultaneous events, while VOD centers on previously recorded content.
Adaptive bitrate streaming: A streaming method that switches among encoded quality levels as network conditions change. VOD players use it to keep playback going when bandwidth fluctuates.
Advertising video on demand: A VOD model that provides video content with advertising as a source of revenue. Advertiser-funded catalogs let viewers watch selected content without a direct payment.

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