Internet Protocol Television

Internet Protocol television (IPTV) is a hybrid of traditional television and new media. IPTV users receive digital television programs on television sets or on computers or other digital devices through set-top boxes or other customer-premises equipment. Signals are transmitted over broadband Internet through telecommunication networks. IPTV can provide live television programs, video on demand (VOD), and time-shifted programming. It also supports interactive multimedia operation and multitasking, which applies to content including audio and video, games, and other value-added services.

Unlike services in which video is streamed through the open Internet, IPTV uses a dedicated network to provide greater consistency and quality. Telecommunication companies and network providers offer IPTV services, often as part of packages that include telephone, Internet, and wireless services. This entry first discusses the ...