Streaming Media Platforms: Architecture and Monetisation Streaming platforms connect creators and audiences through a layered, scalable architecture. The goal is reliable playback, fast discovery, and fair revenue for rights holders.
Ingest and encoding: content is uploaded, transcoded into multiple resolutions, and packaged for HLS and DASH. Storage and catalog: metadata, subtitles, licenses, and rights are organized for search and recommendations. Delivery: a global CDN caches popular segments, reducing latency and easing peak load. DRM and licensing: Widevine, PlayReady, and FairPlay protect access; license servers enforce rules. Player and telemetry: apps negotiate ABR, validate licenses, report quality of service, and learn viewer behavior. Analytics and payments: usage data drives recommendations and billing, while subscriptions and renewals run in the background. Monetisation models vary by strategy. Subscriptions offer ongoing access with tiers and offline modes. Advertising models insert spots through server- or client-side methods, supported by targeting and measurement. Hybrid plans mix both, such as free tiers with ads and paid tiers without. Transactional models allow rental or one-time purchases. Licensing windows define when titles appear, expire, and move across platforms.
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