What Is OTT Streaming? How It Relates to IPTV

OTT streaming — "over-the-top" — describes any video delivered over the open internet rather than a dedicated cable or satellite line, and IPTV falls squarely inside that definition.

Where the Term Comes From

"Over-the-top" means the video goes over your existing internet connection rather than a provider-owned network, bypassing ("going over the top of") traditional cable and satellite infrastructure entirely.

IPTV Is a Type of OTT

Netflix, YouTube, and IPTV services are all technically OTT — they all deliver video over the internet. IPTV specifically refers to services replicating live, linear channels, while "OTT" is the broader umbrella term covering on-demand platforms too.

Why the Distinction Rarely Matters

Day to day, this is industry terminology more than a practical difference — see our how IPTV works guide for what actually matters to a subscriber.