Streaming and Digital Media

2    Technology Primer

The Basics of Streaming and Digital Media

Introduction to Streaming and Digital Media Technologies

This chapter introduces streaming and digital media technologies, defines the technical differences between the types of content commonly delivered over the Internet, and highlights the key differences between traditional broadcasting and Internet technologies. Skip this chapter if, when asked by a colleague, customer, or cousin, you can confidently explain all of the following:

•  The basic technical concepts of digital media delivery, such as streaming, download, loss, latency, jitter, content delivery networks (CDNs), and digital rights management (DRM).

•  The difference between the two Internet media delivery approaches—streaming ...