How OTT delivery works
OTT content is delivered over the public internet using standard protocols like HLS or DASH. Unlike traditional TV, which requires dedicated infrastructure (cable, satellite, broadcast towers), OTT only needs an internet connection and a compatible device. This dramatically lowers the barrier to entry for content distributors.
- Content is hosted on cloud infrastructure and delivered via CDN
- Viewers access content through web browsers, mobile apps, or smart TV apps
- No dependency on cable operators or broadcast licenses
- Global reach from day one — anyone with internet access can be a viewer
OTT vs IPTV
While both deliver video over IP networks, OTT and IPTV differ fundamentally in their architecture and business model.
| Aspect | OTT | IPTV |
|---|
| Network | Public internet | Managed private network |
| Quality guarantee | Best-effort (ABR adapts) | Guaranteed QoS |
| Provider | Independent (anyone can launch) | Telecom operator |
| Set-top box | Not required | Usually required |
| Content control | Full control by publisher | Shared with operator |
Launching an OTT platform
Building an OTT platform used to require significant engineering resources. Today, turnkey solutions make it possible to launch a professional OTT service without writing code. Key components include video management, transcoding, a branded player, user authentication, payment processing, and multi-device support.
- Choose a niche and content strategy (education, fitness, entertainment, corporate)
- Set up video hosting with automatic transcoding and adaptive streaming
- Create a branded viewing experience with your domain and visual identity
- Configure monetization: subscriptions, pay-per-view, or free with registration
- Launch on web first, then expand to mobile and smart TV apps
How Videas powers OTT platforms
Videas Channels is a turnkey OTT solution: a branded channel on your own domain, with automatic transcoding, an adaptive HLS player, sales by subscription, purchase or rental, viewer account management and built-in analytics. A channel is a website: it opens in the browser of a phone, a tablet or a connected TV, but native apps are still in development. Creators, training organisations and media companies use it to distribute and monetise their catalogue with no development work.
Frequently asked questions
What does OTT mean in video?+
OTT stands for Over-The-Top. It refers to video content delivered directly over the internet, without going through a traditional cable or satellite operator.
Is Netflix an OTT platform?+
Yes, the best-known one: it delivers straight to viewers over the internet, with no cable subscription. Any organisation can launch a comparable platform at its own scale with a tool like Videas Channels.
OTT or VOD — what is the difference?+
OTT names the distribution method — over the internet, without an operator — and VOD names the consumption model, on demand. An OTT platform usually delivers VOD, sometimes live.
What does launching an OTT platform on Videas cost?+
A channel costs EUR 10 per month, plus EUR 10 per month if you connect your own domain. Usage is on top: EUR 0.20 per hour of video stored per month, EUR 0.02 per gigabyte delivered with the first terabyte free. On what you sell, Videas takes 15%. No subscription and no commitment: everything is drawn from a prepaid credit wallet.
Can I publish my platform on my own domain?+
Yes, for EUR 10 more per month. The channel then appears at your address, with your colours and your logo.
Is there a mobile app?+
Not yet. A channel is a website: it opens in the browser of a phone, a tablet or a connected TV. Native apps are in development — if your project depends on them, say so before you start.
How do my viewers sign in?+
With an account on your channel, using your company's SSO if you have one. Statistics then become readable per registered user, and not just per country.
Can I stream live on an OTT platform?+
Yes. You connect your encoder over RTMP, the live stream goes out on the channel, and the recording joins the media library as a replay as soon as the broadcast ends.
Do I need to write code to launch an OTT platform?+
No. The catalogue, the pages, the player, payments and statistics are all set from the editor. Developers can still go through the API and the embed codes.
Will Videas bring me an audience?+
No. A channel does not rank by itself: the audience is yours to bring. Videas provides the platform, the delivery and the measurement, not the discovery.