IPTV delivers television content using signals based on the Internet protocol (IP), through the open, unmanaged Internet with the “last-mile” telecom company acting only as the Internet service provider (ISP). As described above, “Internet television” is “over-the-top technology” (OTT). Both IPTV and OTT use the Internet protocol over a packet-switched network to transmit data, but IPTV operates in a closed system dedicated, managed network controlled by the local cable, satellite, telephone, or fiber-optic company.

1. Difference between OTT and IPTV
IPTV delivers television content using signals based on the Internet protocol (IP), through the
open, unmanaged Internet with the “last-mile” telecom company acting only as the Internet
service provider (ISP). As described above, “Internet television” is “over-the-top
technology” (OTT). Both IPTV and OTT use the Internet protocol over a packet-switched
network to transmit data, but IPTV operates in a closed system dedicated, managed network
controlled by the local cable, satellite, telephone, or fiber-optic company.
What Is OTT?
OTT stands for over the top video streaming. It can be applied by anyone over the internet
connection. Some OTT content can be produced by an open ecosystem. Its monthly cost is
relatively low as compared to several internet networks. This term is used to define the
content provider that allocates streaming media directly to viewers over the web, bypassing
multiple platforms like telecommunication, broadcast television, multichannel that facilitate
as a controller or distributor of such content.
What Is IPTV?
IPTV stands for Internet protocol television. It is the process of communicating and
broadcasting television programs through the web using Internet Protocol. IPTV provides
dynamic features to the user to execute the user experience compared to a traditional
television transmission including radio frequency broadcast, satellite broadcast, and cable
television. A broadband connection is used as the channel of transmission for IPTV, which is
very adequate compared to previous transmission modes.

2. OTT VS IPTV – What’s Different?
Definition
● OTT is the delivery of video content over the internet directly to users, bypassing traditional
cable or satellite providers.
● IPTV refers to the delivery of television programming using internet protocol (IP) networks.
Content
● OTT services offer a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, and live sports,
which users can access on-demand.
● IPTV services offer traditional TV channels and live broadcasts, along with on-demand
content.
Delivery
● OTT content is delivered over the open internet and can be accessed on any device with an
internet connection, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
● IPTV content is delivered over private networks and is typically accessed through a set-top
box or a dedicated IPTV app on a device.
Quality
● OTT content is typically delivered in lower quality than IPTV due to the open nature of the
internet, which can result in buffering or pixelation.
● IPTV content is delivered in high quality and is less likely to experience buffering or
pixelation due to the dedicated network infrastructure.
Cost
● OTT services are generally less expensive than IPTV, and users typically pay a monthly
subscription fee for access to the content.
● IPTV services can be more expensive than OTT due to the infrastructure required to deliver
high-quality content and the need for a set-top box or dedicated app.
User Experience
● OTT services offer a personalised and flexible viewing experience, allowing users to watch
content on-demand and on their preferred devices.
● IPTV services offer a more traditional TV viewing experience, with live channels and
scheduled broadcasts.

3. Conclusion
In summary, OTT vs IPTV are two different methods of delivering TV content over the internet.
IPTV uses a dedicated network to deliver content, while OTT services use the public internet. Both
have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on various
factors such as content type, quality of service, cost, device compatibility, and customer support.
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