Put yourself in your customers’ shoes. You’ve just signed up for a new customer account management SaaS platform, and you are overwhelmed. Many such platforms are littered with bells and whistles that are a lot to take in but, once taught, can be immensely helpful. Luckily for you, your SaaS provider has a video-on-demand (VOD) library of tutorial and best practices videos that are easy to browse and available to view at the click of a button. This helps you find what you need quickly and is all included in the cost of your support plan. They also update their VOD platform all the time in response to customer FAQs, new features, and other industry developments.
Now substitute tutorials and best practices videos with whatever your customers want to see: product release demos, curated fan content, replays and highlights, etc. Or maybe you use it internally for HR and security trainings, ongoing education, and so forth. You don’t have to be in the business of video to benefit from it or to leverage it for the benefit of your customers.
You don’t have to be in the business of video to benefit from it or to leverage it for the benefit if your customers.
What is Video-on-Demand (VOD) Streaming?
Video-on-demand (VOD) is a model for video distribution that allows viewers to access pre-recorded video content at their leisure. Basically, any time you log into your Netflix or Hulu account and select a television show or movie, you are engaging in VOD streaming. However, VOD platform use cases extend far past these popular streaming services. They can be found in internally facing HR systems, on virtual education platforms, and anywhere else you might find a menu of pre-recorded videos from which to select.
You’ll notice we’ve said “pre-recorded” a couple of times now. That’s the real distinguishing feature of VOD streaming. If you elect to watch a live stream from a selection of live stream options, then you are not streaming on-demand. Similarly, if you tune into a pre-recorded webinar at a specific time, you are not streaming on-demand. A VOD platform is user centric; it lets you decide what to watch, when to watch it, and even allows you to pause, rewind, and fast-forward the content.
What Is a VOD Streaming Platform?
If VOD streaming is the act of selecting videos for viewing a la carte, then a VOD platform is the application or “restaurant” that serves up the menu. This is sometimes used to refer to the VOD streaming service (e.g. Hulu or Netflix) but is more accurately used to refer to what’s under the hood. In other words, a VOD platform allows VOD streaming services to build the application through which viewers can access their content. In this sense, VOD platforms are B2B solutions that allow a company such as yours to build a VOD streaming service, whether that service is internal, B2B, or B2C.
To see more on VOD Streaming Platforms and why professionals choose Wowza, see: The Best Live Streaming Platforms
How does VOD (video on demand) work?
A VOD platform gives a company the tools and infrastructure they need to build a VOD streaming service, whether they are looking to be the next Netflix or simply give their customers or employees access to video content. To better understand how this happens, we should look at how VOD streaming works.
VOD STREAMING WORKFLOW
- Content Acquisition: The first step in VOD streaming is obtaining the video content. This could be a pre-recorded video or a live broadcast, usually in a single format and rendition.
- Digitization and Encoding: The video content is then digitized (if not already in digital format) and encoded into a suitable digital format and creating various renditions . This process may involve compression to reduce the file size, making it easier to store and stream.
- Content Storage: The encoded video content is stored on a server, ready for streaming. This is also the time when metadata (such as video title, description, and keywords) is added to the video files, which helps in content discovery.
- Content Delivery Network (CDN): To ensure the smooth delivery of video content to users worldwide, the content is often distributed across a network of servers known as a Content Delivery Network (CDN). This reduces the load on the original server by providing the content from the edge server geographically closest to the user.
- Streaming Protocol: When a user requests to watch a video, the server uses a streaming protocol to deliver the video content. Common streaming protocols include HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) and Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH). These protocols adapt the quality of the video stream in real time according to the viewer's network conditions.
- Client-side Player: The video content is received and decoded by a video player located on the user's device. This player could be a web-based player or a dedicated application, depending on the VOD platform.
- Content Consumption: The user can watch the video on their device, with the ability to control when, where, and how they watch. They can pause, rewind, fast-forward, and (depending on the VOD platform) download the video for later viewing.
- Analytics and Reporting: Most VOD platforms also provide analytics tools that track viewer behavior and video performance. This data is valuable for understanding user engagement and optimizing the VOD experience.
Viewers can either watch the stream directly as it arrives from the online source or download the data for later viewing. There may be restrictions on these capabilities enforced by the streaming services themselves. Many streaming services, like Netflix, won’t allow viewers to store video files locally or copy those files into other formats.
ROLE OF THE VOD PLATFORM
Where do you get the video server to store and transcode your video data for delivery? How do you access a CDN capable of delivering to your audience? What tools can you use to effectively analyze your streaming performance and audience behaviors? This is where your chosen VOD platform provider comes in.
What is the difference between VOD and live streaming?
VOD provides viewers flexibility to watch at their own pace, while live streaming occurs in real-time and requires immediate viewer participation. VOD is ideal for evergreen content, whereas live streaming is best for events and real-time interaction.
OTT Streaming and VOD: Definitions and Differences
What is OTT?
OTT (Over-the-top) refers to content delivered over the internet without traditional cable or satellite providers. Unlike traditional broadcast or cable, OTT content bypasses regulated distribution channels, offering flexibility in how media is consumed. Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video are examples of OTT platforms, delivering content via internet-connected devices.
How does OTT streaming work?
OTT streaming works by delivering video and audio content over internet protocol (IP) networks, bypassing traditional broadcast infrastructure. Content is streamed directly to users via broadband, Wi-Fi, or mobile internet connections.
Users typically access OTT content through apps or websites on smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, desktops, and streaming devices like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick. These platforms are designed to optimize performance across different devices and internet speeds.
OTT services rely heavily on Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) to ensure efficient and high-speed distribution of media. CDNs store copies of content across multiple servers in different geographic locations to reduce latency and buffering.
Key technologies used in OTT streaming include:
- Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABR): Automatically adjusts video quality based on the viewer's internet connection.
- Streaming Protocols: Such as HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and MPEG-DASH to deliver content smoothly across devices.
- Digital Rights Management (DRM): Protects content from piracy and unauthorized access.
Here is a simplified OTT streaming workflow:
| Step | Description |
| 1. Content Ingest | Upload or encode video content to a platform or server |
| 2. Transcoding | Repackage video into formats for different devices |
| 3. CDN Distribution | Deliver video files closer to the user for faster access |
| 4. Playback | Viewer streams content through an app or web player |
The key advantage of OTT streaming is that it removes the need for cable providers or other middlemen, giving content creators more direct control over distribution and monetization. It also allows for personalized content delivery, such as curated recommendations and targeted ads, which enhances viewer engagement and platform profitability.
VOD vs. OTT: A Comparison
Over-the-top (OTT) streaming is similar to VOD, and many VOD platforms are also OTT platforms. However, while VOD is defined by the on-demand nature of the video content, OTT is defined by whether or not that content is being delivered over the internet or over cable. Netflix is a prime example of a service that is both VOD and OTT. It is both on-demand and streamed over the internet. However, some streaming services are now offering “channels” that stream pre-set programs. These would still qualify as OTT but not VOD.
VOD Streaming and OTT Monetization Models
Are you planning to make VOD into another revenue stream for your business? When it comes to generating revenue with VOD platforms, there are several approaches that can be utilized. Let’s investigate the most common VOD platform monetization models used to turn content into profits.
SVOD
The rise of Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) has revolutionized the way people watch films and TV shows. This type of service allows customers to pay a subscription fee to access a wide variety of content. Subscription Video Services (SVS) are now becoming an increasingly popular way to watch media, replacing traditional cable and satellite television packages.
SVOD is a type of video streaming service that offers users constant access in exchange for a recurring fee. Those who subscribe to video services such as HBO Max enjoy the high-quality content, lack of commercials, and the freedom to watch whatever they want whenever they want.
The SVOD model, championed by services like Netflix, has enabled a form of content access where only subscribers can gain access. This ensures the company's continued revenue each month, regardless of the amount of VOD content streamed.
AVOD
Ad-supported video on demand, more commonly known as AVOD, closely resembles traditional television programming in that it uses ads and other marketing strategies to generate income.
In the Asia-Pacific region, the most popular type of VOD platform is ad-supported. This differentiates it from traditional television, as streaming on the internet allows for targeting advertisements to individual users based on their demographic profiles.
As there are now an abundance of streaming services, professionals anticipate that ad-supported video will become more popular, causing Netflix and other OTT providers to reconsider their subscription-based monetization strategy. People might get fed up with having to pay for a variety of streaming services and choose both free and mixed services that combine subscription- and advertisement-sourced income.
TVOD
Transactional video on demand (TVOD) is a VOD platform monetization model that involves purchasing single-use viewings. In some cases, this type of content is referred to as premium video on demand (PVOD). Examples of PVOD offerings include new release films and boxing matches.
This is the least common VOD platform monetization model. Although, the current global pandemic has shifted this trend. During the past two years, a significant number of films that would normally be released in theaters when direct to VOD platforms and made available via a single payment.
LIVE-TO-VOD
Live-to-VOD extends the life and reach of your live content by making it available for on-demand viewing. This allows you to connect with audiences who missed the live stream due to time zones, scheduling conflicts, or connectivity issues. Viewers benefit from the flexibility to watch when it suits them—and can pause, rewind, or fast-forward to get the most out of the experience.
For businesses, live-to-VOD opens the door to new monetization opportunities. You can charge for access, include the content in a subscription model, or run ads on recorded streams. It also boosts long-term engagement, as viewers are more likely to rewatch and share content, increasing exposure and driving interaction beyond the live event.
Repurposing live content is a smart strategy. Even if the original value was in its immediacy—like with sports or webinars—audiences often return to replays or catch up later. Simply reposting the recorded stream works, but you can also get creative: create highlight reels, cut short clips for social media, or pull stills for future promotional graphics. This approach not only maximizes ROI but also strengthens your video content strategy overall.
DO YOU NEED MONETIZATION?
VOD can be your company’s bread-and-butter, a supplementary revenue stream, or none of the above. Your VOD platform does not need to be charging money to have value for your business. Internal VOD platforms would be more valuable from an operations and administration perspective than a revenue one. Even some external use cases may not call for charging viewers or selling ad space. Maybe you just want to create a more dynamic content strategy (video blog), explore more creative brand building opportunities, or set yourself up as an industry leader through more compelling and shareable content. Think of VOD as a tool that may or may not result in a direct revenue stream but will definitely contribute to a broader marketing, branding, or customer service strategy.
Your VOD offering does not need to be charging money to have value for your business.
What Makes a Great VOD Streaming Platform?
Select a VOD platform provider that’s flexible in both the tools and pricing plans it has available. After all, the best VOD platform provider will be one that grows with you, providing options that are as scalable as they are cost effective.
For amateur video distribution, sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube could be the right choice. Nevertheless, if you are aiming to use VOD streaming for business purposes, then you should go for a professional streaming platform. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Content Management System (CMS): Without a straightforward way to store, share, and organize VOD files, there is little value in having a VOD service. A video CMS helps store, manage, and distribute video assets. You can buy a video CMS as a standalone product, but it’s best to look for a VOD platform provider that offers CMS as an integrated component.
- Content Delivery Network (CDN): CDNs are server networks that help limit the sort of server strain that can lead to poor quality or failed streams. A reliable global CDN can help you stream more quickly and efficiently to a large number of viewers regardless of geographic location. It can also help you accommodate traffic surges and protect against DDoS attacks. CDNs can be purchased separately, but the best VOD platforms will have a CDN already built in.
- Digital Rights Management (DRM): It’s difficult to monetize a VOD service without content security measures in place. Effective VOD platform security includes access restrictions, like login requirements, token key access management, and more. It also protects the digital assets more directly, often through digital watermarking, to keep users from copying and redistributing your content.
- Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABR): Have you witnessed a stream shift from a fuzzy picture to a sharp focus in an instant? If so, you are acquainted with adaptive bitrate streaming (ABR). This process dynamically adapts video bitrate to accommodate user bandwidth restrictions, ensuring the best possible video experience for viewers.
- Transcoding and Delivery: Transcoding and processing is essential to accommodating different screens and varying internet speeds. This not only enables ABR, but also repackages content in a variety of formats for seamless playback on any device. Use a flexible VOD platform that works with a range of streaming protocols.
- High Quality Video Player: Take ownership of the viewer’s experience by selecting a VOD platform with a quality video player integrated into it. Your ideal VOD platform will have a player that is reliable, secure, provides advanced viewer controls, and even tracks player-specific analytics.
- Advanced End-to-End Analytics: Part of any effective VOD service is the ability to gain insights across your workflow from ingest through delivery, including audience specific data like geographic location and playback devices. This allows you to maximize the effectiveness of your platform.
The Best VOD Streaming Platforms in 2025
It’s worth noting that VOD platform providers are rarely just that. Many of them offer a host of services and products related to video streaming, like live streaming tools, video CDN access, media server access, online video players, and more. However, it’s also worth noting that just because a provider advertises VOD, they don’t necessarily offer any of those additional features. When choosing the right VOD platform for you, look past the reviews and other noise and really dig into what that organization can do for you (and at what cost).
These providers are among the best options for VOD streaming, whether you want to build something truly unique or prefer an out of the box solution. We’ve measured them against the criteria above and included highlights that truly set them apart.
WOWZA
Wowza is characterized by flexibility and adaptability. We market ourselves as builder-focused given our accessible video APIs, flexible protocol support, and easy integration with existing infrastructure and workflows. However, we also offer a more holistic, cloud-based option for those just looking to get rolling as quickly and painlessly as possible. In either case, we can be as big or as small as you need, right sized for your business and your budget. Wowza is an ideal choice for those looking for flexibility not only in the solution itself, but also in how it can adapt to an evolving video strategy. In other words, we can start where you’re at and scale with your needs without missing a beat.
Wowza meets all of the listed criteria either inherently or through integrated partnerships.
| CMS | CDN | DRM | ABR | Transcoding | Player | Analytics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CMS
|
CDN
|
DRM
|
ABR
|
Transcoding
|
Player
|
Analytics
|
Highlights:
- Custom global CDN with a 99.9% uptime.
- Real-time, sub-second, streaming to a million viewers
- Unique video player tools, including multi-camera angle toggling for viewers
- Robust security options from a SOC 2 Type 2 certified organization
- Advanced end-to-end analytics, including audience and player-specific insights
- Live to VOD streamlined capabilities for easier asset maximization
- Substantial free and paid support options, including 24/7 and live event support
Free Trial? – YES
Wowza is an ideal choice for those looking for flexibility not only in the solution itself, but also in how it can adapt to an evolving video strategy.
WHY CHOOSE WOWZA?
Wowza has options designed for both builders looking for a highly customized solution and those looking for a quick and easy start. We offer free and aid premium support, including live event support. Our highly efficient media server and global CDN are trusted by thousands of companies in over 35k implementations worldwide, both large and small, thanks in part to our 99.9% SLA uptime. In short, we just work, and we do it for companies that range in size, budget, implementation needs, and use case.
DACAST
DaCast is known for its affordable and accessible video streaming tools, as well as broadcasting alternatives. Its primary strength is in its flexible pricing options, making it an excellent choice for startups and other small businesses looking for an easy and affordable solution.
It’s worth noting that given DaCast’s varied payment options, some of the items checked below may be plan specific (as in the case of DRM for video, which is part of their Scale plan). However, they are all present in some capacity.
| CMS | CDN | DRM | ABR | Transcoding | Player | Analytics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CMS
|
CDN
|
DRM
|
ABR
|
Transcoding
|
Player
|
Analytics
|
Highlights:
- Flexible and affordable pricing plans, including options for unlimited viewers
- 27/4 tech support as well as mobile phone support
- Builder-friendly with API access and white label options
- Custom HTML 5 video player
- Robust security includes AES video encryption
Free Trial? – YES
BRIGHTCOVE
Brightcove is a highly reliable platform, known for its seamless delivery. It has a long history of providing trusted live and on-demand streaming tools. In particular, it has robust monetization options, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to create a paid VOD streaming service or integrate video into their marketing and advertising workflows.
As for the criteria listed in the last section, Brightcove meets them all in some capacity or other. However, some of the features may be solution specific.
| CMS | CDN | DRM | ABR | Transcoding | Player | Analytics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CMS
|
CDN
|
DRM
|
ABR
|
Transcoding
|
Player
|
Analytics
|
Highlights:
- Varied monetization options, including global payment models
- Robust customer support, including live event support
- App integration for social media, salesforce, and more
- Intuitive interface that includes video editing tools
- Interactive streaming tools for more immersive experiences
- Highly customizable video library tools
Free Trial? – Demo by request only
JW PLAYER
JW Player started as just that, a player, the code for which contributed to the original YouTube video player. It’s since grown to provide more comprehensive VOD and live streaming services, including access to a highly expansive CDN that serves more than 130 countries. Now JW Player is best for those looking to get started fast and within budget but who don’t have complex feature requirements or extensive live event needs.
| CMS | CDN | DRM | ABR | Transcoding | Player | Analytics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CMS
|
CDN
|
DRM
|
ABR
|
Transcoding
|
Player
|
Analytics
|
Highlights:
- Token authentication and DRM for extra security
- Engagement focused features, such as recommended videos from your collection
- Ad optimization for monetizing your content
- Highly responsive customer support
- Article matching embeds relevant videos into other pages and blog posts
Free Trial? – YES, but you have to contact sales first
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About VOD Streaming
What is a VOD streaming?
Video-on-demand (VOD) streaming allows users to watch content anytime they want, rather than following a scheduled broadcast.
How does video on demand work?
VOD works by encoding and storing video files on a server and delivering them to users via the internet using streaming protocols.
How does OTT streaming work?
OTT content is streamed via applications and devices that connect to the internet, including smart TVs, mobile apps, and web browsers.
VOD vs. OTT: A comparison
OTT is the method of content delivery; VOD is the consumption style. All VOD is OTT, but not all OTT is VOD.
VOD streaming statistics and trends
As of 2025, VOD is projected to dominate over 85% of all internet traffic. Viewer preference for on-demand content has driven rapid innovation and adoption in both consumer and enterprise sectors.
Make Wowza Your VOD Platform Provider
Flexibility is the name of the game. Build a highly customizable VOD streaming service with our builder friendly Wowza Streaming Engine software. Get up and streaming within minutes with Wowza Video, our easy-to-start and easy-to-scale cloud-based streaming platform. Consider a hybrid option that gives you the control of Wowza Streaming Engine with access to analytics, best-in-class video player, and CDN as provided by Wowza Video. Whatever your skills and your needs, Wowza has you covered. That’s what makes us more than a live and VOD platform provider. We are a streaming partner that evolves with emerging technology and expands with your needs.