How Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu manage and provide Content

Video streaming services are based on Content Delivery Network (CDN) technology, which is a global network of storage servers that cache content to servers based on the anticipated audience location. These storage servers are custom built and are placed at multiple locations to account for redundancy in case of site failure. CDN has allowed content to be delivered with reduced backhaul providing consumers a better user experience. In an effort to improve viewing experience, video services such as Netflix have deployed edge networks at ISP Point-of-Presence (POPs). This has enabled data to be cached and streamed from the POP and limiting the amount of data to be moved from Netflix’s existing cloud hosting service, reducing overall operational expenses. Content is not just being delivered via high speed cable and fiber, but also on cellular services. There has been a surge in consumers watching high definition videos over cellular networks in recent years. With current 4G network technology supporting 20Mbps and future 5G technology purportedly supporting 100Mbps in the future, content services will increasingly place their edge networks at POPs for higher performance storage.