Guide on Streaming and Progressive Download for AWS CloudFront

What it is: AWS CloudFront Streaming and Progressive Download are two methods used to deliver video, audio, and other media files to end-users. With streaming, media is delivered in a continuous flow, enabling users to view the content as it is received. With progressive download, the media file is downloaded in its entirety before it can be viewed.

Why it is important: Choosing the appropriate method for media delivery is crucial to providing the best user experience. Streaming allows for instantaneous media playback, ideal for live events. Progressive download, on the other hand, ensures playback without interruption, given that the entire file is downloaded before viewing.

How it works: AWS CloudFront leverages a worldwide network of data centers (edge locations) to deliver content to users with low latency and high transfer speeds. Where media files are large or need to be delivered to a global audience, CloudFront optimizes delivery via Streaming or Progressive Download, depending on the nature of the content and user expectations.

Exam Tips - Answering Questions on Streaming and Progressive Download:

• Understand the key differences between streaming and progressive download and when each is most effectively used.
• Know how AWS CloudFront optimizes the delivery of media files through these methods.
• Be prepared to answer questions on user experience, latency, and transfer speeds related to these delivery methods.