How IPTV Works: A Comprehensive Guide

Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) is a form of telecasting TV programmes over the internet. It is different from traditional cable or satellite systems that deliver TV programmes based on the Internet Protocol. IPTV is an IP-based network directly connected to smart devices like smart TVs, computers, Smartphones, Tablets, etc. IPTV allows its users to live stream programs, on-demand programs, or both.

The Attributes of IPTV

• Live TV Streaming: IPTV delivers live TV content ( sports, news, live shows, real-time TV programs, etc) over the Internet Protocol.
  
  
• Video On Demand: Video on Demand (VOD) is a library-based content telecasting system through IPTV service. This feature makes it unique from traditional TV systems. After telecasting programs in real time, users can watch those programs anytime through IPTV.
  
  
• Time-Shifted or Catch-Up TV: This feature allows you to watch missed programs. It also allows pause and resume facilities.
  
  
• Multi-Device Access With Program Guide: Not only smart TVs, but IPTV also allows smartphones, laptops, tablets, set-top boxes, etc., to run TV programmes. Besides multi-device accessibility, it has on-screen program guides that help users to know and browse through programmes.

• HD/4K Streaming & Cloud Recording: IPTV supports HD, ultra HD, or 4K video resolutions, depending on internet speed. In addition to high-resolution videos, it allows program recording so that you can watch the program later.
  
  
• Users’ Recommendations & Parental Control: IPTV follows the user’s watching history and offers the same content they previously watched. Parental control feature is another important attribute that is effective for family-safe watching.

Types of IPTV Service

According to the content delivery system, IPTV services have three types. Let’s discuss them below.

1. Live IPTV: It is similar to traditional (cable or satellite) TV service. Users can enjoy real time programs over the internet using this type of service. Live IPTV includes live telecast sports, news, concerts, real-time TV shows, live YouTube streaming, etc.
   
   
2. Video On Demand (VOD): It is a library-based service. Every IPTV service provider has their collection. Users can enjoy TV shows, movies, or any content (previously telecasted) from the library. The examples of VOD are Disney+, Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, etc.
   
   
3. Time Shifted IPTV: Another popular name for time-shifted IPTV is Catch-up TV and Start-Over TV. Basically, it is a service where users get access to enjoy previously published content or programs. In catch-up TV, you can play a previous program for a limited time. In start-over TV, the user can enjoy a previous live program from the beginning.

How IPTV Works

IPTV operates using the Internet Protocol. It is a substitute for traditional television service. Let’s break down how IPTV works:

• Content Attainment: Content Attainment is the first and foremost step in operating an IPTV service. Service providers collect content from live programs, producers, different TV content syndicates, etc., and connect this content to create a vast content library to broadcast their channel. However, in the case of live programs, IPTV service providers use satellite, optical cables, or direct feeds.

• Coding (Encoding & Transcoding): Encoding reduces the size of videos for perfect delivery. Transcoding is the process of making one video into a different resolution, such as HD, SD, Full HD, or 4K format.

• Storage Content in Library: After coding, the contents are stored in the content library for the user’s VOD. This library makes a content delivery network. The benefit of a content delivery network is that it reduces video buffering and latency.

• Middleware: Middleware is a software platform that manages IPTV content access. Using middleware, the IPTV user gets an interface and menu navigation option, manages subscriptions and other legal matters, and gains control of playback and program recommendations.
• Distribution & Streaming Protocols: IPTV content is distributed among devices as small data according to users’ requests. IPTV uses different protocols, such as HLS (HTTP Live Streaming), MPEG-DASH protocols, RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol), and RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol). These protocols provide smooth streaming, but it depends on the user’s internet speed.

• Delivery Devices: Of course, the device plays a significant role in IPTV. A set-top box or Android TV box connected with IPTV, smart TVs, and mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc., that recognize web browsers are appropriate for IPTV service.

• IPTV Interface: IPTV is controlled by the front-end app. This app allows search, navigation, playback control, etc.

Legal VS Illegal IPTV

The legal issues depend on the IPTV service provider. If the provider has a licensed agent, then it is completely safe and legal. However, an unlicensed provider provides illegal and pirated content. IPTV is an internet-based service. Every internet-based service is good if it is used legally. Otherwise, it causes harm.

Necessities of IPTV Connection

There are some preconditions for enjoying a better IPTV experience. These are:

• Stable internet connection (10 to 25 Mbps)
• An IPTV subscription plan
• A better smart device with adequate storage capacity
• VPN (optional)

Conclusion

IPTV is an innovative alternative to traditional satellite TV, offering live shows, video on demand, and previously aired programs based on user demand. It features a vast content library collected from various sources, with encoded videos for different resolutions to ensure smooth streaming.

IPTV supports multi-device accessibility and utilizes protocols like HLS, MPEG-DASH, RTSP, and RTMP, making streaming dependent on the user’s internet speed. A stable internet connection, a good smart device, and a legal IPTV provider can provide a superior TV experience.