Ah, Cord-Cutting: An Essential Part of the Digital Revolution

Ah, cord-cutting. It rolls off the tongue nicely, and it’s been making waves lately as people look to save money and access content in more efficient ways. But what is cord-cutting? Isn’t it just getting rid of cable?

Yes and no. Cord-cutting can refer to many different things, and understanding the terms associated with it is a great way to save money and stay updated on the latest trends in digital technology.

Let’s break it down, shall we?

Cord-cutter: A cord-cutter is someone who has ditched their cable or satellite TV service in favor of streaming TV and movie content over the internet. In other words, they use internet-based services, like Netflix and Hulu, as their primary source of TV and movie entertainment.

Streaming: This is the process of watching video content through an internet connection. Unlike regular TV, you don’t need a cable or satellite connection to do it. All you need is a high-speed internet connection, and you’re good to go.

OTT: This stands for “over the top,” and it refers to anytime content is delivered and consumed via the internet. Common examples of OTT services include Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and YouTube.

Live TV streaming service: This is a streaming service that allows you to watch live TV through the internet. Some of the most popular ones include Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, and DirecTV Now. These services provide access to dozens of popular TV channels, and you can even “pause” live TV as if you’re watching through a regular cable or satellite provider.

Smart TV: A Smart TV is a television that is connected to the internet and offers access to streaming apps and services. With a Smart TV, you can watch Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and other streaming services without the need for additional devices such as a streaming box.

Set-top box: A set-top box is a device that connects to your television and allows you to watch streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, without the need for a Smart TV.

And there you have it: the basic terms associated with cord-cutting and streaming. For those looking to save a buck and still access their favorite shows, cord-cutting is a no-brainer. Go ahead and take the plunge!