What Is VOD?
VOD, or Video on Demand, is a system that allows users to select and watch video content at any time they choose, rather than having to watch a scheduled broadcast. The content is stored on a server and streamed to the viewer on request. Examples of VOD content include movies, TV episodes, online courses, and recorded webinars.
What Is OTT?
OTT, or Over-The-Top, refers to the delivery of video content directly to viewers over the internet, bypassing traditional cable, satellite, or broadcast television distribution. The term "over-the-top" refers to going over the top of existing distribution networks. Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video are well-known OTT platforms.
The Relationship Between VOD and OTT
VOD and OTT are related but not identical concepts. OTT is the delivery method — delivering content over the internet. VOD is the content model — content available on demand. An OTT platform can offer VOD content (like Netflix's library of movies), live streaming content (like a live sports broadcast), or both. VOD is a content model that can be delivered via OTT or through other means.
Key Differences
VOD describes when content can be watched (any time, on demand). OTT describes how content is delivered (over the internet, bypassing traditional TV). A service can be both OTT and VOD simultaneously, or OTT with live content, or traditional broadcast with VOD capabilities.
Kavimo in the VOD and OTT Ecosystem
Kavimo provides the video hosting and streaming infrastructure that powers VOD delivery for websites. Whether you are building an OTT platform, an e-learning site, or embedding video content on any web property, Kavimo handles the technical infrastructure — encoding, storage, CDN delivery, and player — so you can focus on your content.