The number of people streaming is increasing exponentially, greatly impacting how the entertainment industry creates and distributes content, but what exactly is streaming?

Think of media streaming (both audio and video) as an on demand cable channel. You are watching the content in real time as it is being sent.  Like watching live  television with DVR capability (as opposed to pre-recorded) you can pause the content, you can rewind the content, and at times you might even be able to skip ahead a tiny bit. 

The two most defining characteristics are that you need either an internet connection or a data connection (such as 4G) in order to stream.  Secondly, you do not own the content.  You can stream from a service such as Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, etc. or website such as Youtube, as long as they choose to host and share the content.  Once they take it down, it’s gone, you do not have a copy of the file saved on the device you viewed it on.

Don’t let what you are watching the content on confuse you. When you watch a Netflix movie via Blu-Ray, you are streaming. When you buy an iTunes movie and watch it on Apple TV, that movie is downloaded to your Apple TV.

Pros and Cons

Both streaming and downloading a file have pros and cons.  One is not better than the other. They are different methods of viewing created for different situations.  Want to watch your favorite movie anytime, anywhere?  Download it.  What to catch up on an episode via Hulu, stream it.  Going on a plane without Wi-Fi?  Download it.  Looking for a change in music just for the day?  Stream it.

Streaming

PROS

• Takes up less disk space on your computer, server, or devices.

• Typically a less expensive way to enjoy copyrighted material.

• Allows for spontaneous access as long as you have a connection.

• You don’t have to wait for the file to download before you watch it.

CONS

• An internet or wireless data connection is required.

• If your wireless plan has a data limit, streaming uses it up quickly.

• If you have a weak connection, the content may freeze or be choppy.

• You do not own the content and are dependent on the source that is hosting the media.

Downloads

PROS

• You own the content and can access it at any time.

• Content can be watched in locations without an internet or data connection.

• Unless the file is corrupted, the content won’t freeze or glitch.

CONS

• You need to download the full file before you can begin watching it.

• Media is being stored on your commuter or device, taking up space.

• Copyrighted material is typically more expensive.