Server-Side Ad Insertion
Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI), also known as Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI), is an advanced technology employed in the world of digital streaming media to integrate advertisements into content seamlessly. Unlike traditional methods where ads are served separately from content, SSAI stitches ads directly into the content stream at the server level. This process ensures a smooth, uninterrupted viewing experience, akin to watching a regular TV broadcast, but in the digital space.
In the SSAI process, ads are inserted in real-time as the content is streamed to the viewer. When a user starts streaming a video, the server identifies the designated ad break points within the content. It then dynamically replaces these spots with appropriate advertisements, tailored to the viewer’s profile, including factors like geographic location, viewing history, and device type. This seamless integration not only enhances the user experience by eliminating buffering or loading issues often associated with client-side ad insertion but also makes it more difficult for ad blockers to detect and block the ads, thus benefiting content providers and advertisers.
Moreover, SSAI enables consistent and high-quality ad delivery across various devices, from smart TVs and desktops to mobile phones and tablets. This uniformity is crucial in today’s multi-device environment, ensuring advertisers reach their audience effectively, regardless of the viewing platform. The ability to insert ads in a non-disruptive manner, combined with the potential for targeted advertising, makes Server-Side Ad Insertion a valuable tool in the evolving landscape of digital content consumption.
Links
- Amazon AWS: https://aws.amazon.com/media/tech/what-server-side-ad-insertion-ssai/
- AdExchanger: https://www.adexchanger.com/adexplainer/adexplainer-what-is-server-side-ad-insertion-ssai/
- Harmonic: https://www.harmonicinc.com/insights/blog/ssai-and-dai