What are the benefits and challenges of using multi-DRM for OTT delivery?

1 What is DRM and encryption for OTT?

DRM is a system that controls how users can access, copy, or share digital content. It prevents unauthorized copying, redistribution, or modification of the content by applying encryption, authentication, and licensing mechanisms. Encryption is the process of transforming data into a form that only authorized parties can decipher. Encryption ensures that the content is secure and protected from hackers, pirates, or other malicious actors. Together, DRM and encryption enable content providers to deliver their OTT content to authorized users while preventing piracy and preserving their revenue.

2 Why is DRM and encryption important for OTT?

DRM and encryption are essential for OTT because they protect the rights and interests of both content providers and users. For content providers, DRM and encryption help them to monetize their OTT content, comply with licensing agreements and regulations, and maintain their brand reputation and customer loyalty. For users, DRM and encryption ensure that they can access the OTT content they paid for, enjoy a high-quality and uninterrupted viewing experience, and avoid legal or ethical issues related to piracy or copyright infringement.

4 What is multi-DRM and how does it work?

Multi-DRM is a solution that allows content providers to use multiple DRM systems to deliver their OTT content to different devices and platforms. Multi-DRM works by using a common encryption scheme that can be decrypted by different DRM systems. For example, a content provider can encrypt their OTT content using the Common Encryption (CENC) standard, which can be decrypted by various DRM systems such as Widevine, PlayReady, or FairPlay. This way, the content provider can use one encryption process but multiple DRM systems to reach a wider audience.

5 What are the benefits of using multi-DRM for OTT delivery?

Using multi-DRM for OTT delivery has several benefits for content providers and users. It simplifies the workflow, reduces costs, improves compatibility and interoperability, and enhances security and protection. Content providers no longer need to encrypt their OTT content multiple times or maintain separate servers or licenses for each DRM system. They can use one encryption process and one server to deliver their OTT content to multiple devices and platforms, ensuring users have a seamless viewing experience without compatibility issues or errors. Moreover, they can use the best DRM system for each device and platform, as well as leverage the latest encryption technologies and standards. This helps content providers protect their OTT content from unauthorized access or piracy, so that users can trust their content is secure.

6 How to implement multi-DRM for OTT delivery?

Implementing multi-DRM for OTT delivery requires some technical expertise and resources. Content providers need to choose the right DRM systems for their OTT content, encrypt their OTT content using a common encryption scheme, and integrate their DRM systems with their OTT delivery platform. They also need to obtain the necessary licenses and certificates from the DRM providers, and manage the authentication and authorization of users. Alternatively, content providers can use a third-party multi-DRM service provider that can handle all the aspects of multi-DRM for them. A multi-DRM service provider can offer a cloud-based or on-premise solution that can encrypt, license, and deliver OTT content using multiple DRM systems.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?