What Is DRM (Digital Rights Management) in Video Streaming?

VOD and OTT, Simply Explained

VOD and OTT are two concepts that often get confused with each other because of how closely they're related. In this article, we'll give you a clear, concise explanation of both. But before we dive in, take a look at the infographic below:

VOD: The Father of Video Streaming

You had to be sitting in front of the TV at exactly the right time — and hope the antenna was working, the broadcast didn't cut out, the kids didn't suddenly want cartoons, or your father didn't switch to the news right in the middle of your movie. We've all lived through that scenario at least once. VOD services put an end to all of that. VOD (short for Video-on-Demand) is a video distribution method that lets viewers access content whenever they want. Unlike traditional TV, where you wait for the video, with VOD the video waits for you. The defining feature of video-on-demand is watching on your own schedule. By that definition, video rental shops (that rented out DVDs) and movie download websites are both types of VOD services. These days, though, VOD most commonly refers to internet TV services — streaming platforms like YouTube, Aparat, Filimo, and Namava — that deliver video over the internet.

 

OTT: Over the Top of the Internet

OTT (short for Over-The-Top) refers to any service that delivers content and services over the internet rather than through traditional, physical infrastructure. Under that definition, messaging apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, and Line, or ride-hailing apps like Snapp and Tapsi, all qualify as OTT services. Even set-top boxes, Apple TV, and Chromecast — devices that bring internet to your TV — are considered OTT devices. That said, in recent years OTT has become most closely associated with internet television.

 

The Difference Between OTT and VOD

Finally, the difference between OTT and VOD — best explained with an example. Say a football match is being broadcast live next Sunday at 9:00 PM sharp. You can watch it in three different ways: Option one is watching it live on regular TV at 9 PM. In this case, you're using neither OTT nor VOD. It's not OTT because the video isn't delivered over the internet, and it's not VOD because it's not on demand — it only airs at a fixed time, not when you choose. Option two is watching the live stream on your computer, tablet, or phone. In this case, you are using OTT, but it's still not VOD, because it's not playing on demand — it's airing live on a schedule. Option three is downloading the match from the internet or watching the replay on YouTube or Aparat. Here you're using both OTT, because you're going through the internet, and VOD, because you're watching it on your own terms — you can even rewind and fast-forward. We hope that clears up the difference between OTT and VOD. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.