Streaming Lexicon
A concise reference guide to the technical acronyms and industry terms that define the modern streaming era. Use these definitions to better understand the technology behind your screen. Click any term to see current news and deeper technical details via a Web search.
AVOD: Advertising-based Video on Demand
Paid services that offer a discounted monthly rate in exchange for including commercial breaks. Examples include the entry-level tiers of Netflix and Disney Plus.
Buffering:
The process where a device pre-loads data before playing it. When a video pauses with a spinning wheel, it is usually because the internet speed is not fast enough to keep the "buffer" full.
Cloud DVR:
A feature offered by most live streaming services that allows you to record shows and movies to the service's servers rather than a physical box in your living room.
FAST: Free Ad-Supported Television
Streaming services that provide scheduled, "live" channels and on-demand content without a subscription fee. Examples include Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Tubi, Xumo Play, and Sling Freestream.
Geo-restriction:
The method used by streaming services to limit or block access to specific content based on a user's geographic location or IP address, often due to licensing agreements.
HDCP: High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection
A form of digital copy protection designed to prevent the unauthorized copying of video and audio content. If your streaming player and TV are not using compatible versions of HDCP, you may see an error message or a blank screen.
HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface
The standard connection used to transmit high-quality video and audio from a streaming player to a television using a single cable.
Latency:
The delay, or lag, between a real-time event and the moment the video appears on your screen. This is often noticed when comparing a live internet stream to a traditional broadcast signal.
Linear TV:
Traditional television where programs are broadcast on a specific channel at a scheduled time. Even though it is delivered over the internet now, many services still follow this "grid" format.
mbps: Megabits per second
A unit of measurement for internet speed. While 25 mbps is the minimum required for a single 4K/UHD stream, higher speeds are typically necessary for households where multiple devices are streaming simultaneously.
OTA: Over-the-Air
The traditional method of receiving broadcast television from local networks (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC) for free using an antenna.
OTT: Over-the-Top
An industry term for any content that is delivered "over the top" of your internet connection, bypassing traditional cable and satellite providers. It is essentially a synonym for "streaming."
Resolution:
The level of detail and clarity in a video image. Most streaming services offer High Definition (1080p), while many now offer 4K (also known as Ultra HD) for a sharper picture on compatible TVs.
Streaming Player:
The hardware that connects your TV to the internet to access apps. This can be a small "stick" that hides behind the TV, a larger set-top box, or the software built directly into a Smart TV.
SVOD: Subscription Video on Demand
Paid services that allow you to watch movies and shows at any time rather than on a set schedule. Examples include Netflix, Disney Plus, Paramount Plus Essentials, and Paramount Plus Premium.
vMVPD: Virtual Multichannel Video Programming Distributors
Services that provide a "cable-like" experience over the internet, featuring a lineup of live networks and a channel grid. Examples include Sling TV, Hulu+Live TV, and YouTube TV.