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Taking the Lead in Content Protection

In an IP video world that is a jumble of sources, formats and devices, protecting content is no easy task.  So when we’re recognized for doing that task well, it’s especially fitting that we take a bow.  According to SNL Kagan, Alticast and our AltiProtect security system are in rarified company as one of the global leaders in IPTV content protection. 

Here’s what’s special about AltiProtect:  It provides service providers and rights holders with the flexibility and cost-effectiveness they need to safeguard SD, HD and UHD premium content – using pay-TV conditional access (CAS) or digital rights management (DRM) -- from piracy and unauthorized use.  What’s more, it can span the full range of pay-TV architectures and device deployments, from legacy to next-generation systems with a multi-DRM solution.

As the industry moves toward new investments in premium 4K/UHD content, Alticast is once again leading the way in championing greater security – this time through the use of specialized content protection techniques, such as the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 128 bit keys.  To learn more about how Alticast can safeguard your content, please visit the Content Protection section of our website. 

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Cable Operators Offer New Services Through the Broadband Pipe

Cable operators have learned to maximize the prodigious capacity of their networks to deliver new and unique services to complement their traditional video offering. Based on the growing adoption of their home security services over the last year, operators have clearly made a good business decision.

With security as the smart home’s foundation, operators can further monetize the fat pipe by up-selling additional IoT services. In addition to their high capacity networks, MSOs have a unique advantage as they can leverage the set top box, which could serve as the IoT hub in the future smart home.

Because the smart home is still in its early stages, cable operators have the opportunity to position themselves as leaders in the IoT market— and they are off to a good start. They are already playing a more prominent role in educating current and potential customers about the importance of energy monitoring and automation applications in the home. Read Silbey’s full article on how security services boost MSOs here. 

The Latest on Life After CableCARD

With the obligation to use the CableCARD security scheme now a thing of the past, the question is: what will replace it? This is the question examined in an article from Light Reading, “Who will own cable’s Content Security?.”

Alticast CTO and President, John Carlucci, was interviewed for this article, which gives insight into the issues with replacing CableCARD with downloadable security for set-top boxes and where the future lies. The FCC are in the process of creating  an advisory board to look into alternative security options and this article is well worth reading by anyone interested in life after CableCARD.  

The End of the CableCARD

Written by John Carlucci, Alticast US CTO

From time to time, we reflect on the end of CableCard...

The US House of Representatives passed legislation that will sunset the CableCard generating separable security requirement over two years. In September, legislation was introduced into the Senate that allows for a working group to investigate a substitute that would stimulate creation of “competitive devices”.  Bill S.2799 (http://www.opencongress.org/bill/s2799-113/show) suggests a “software-based downloadable security system”.  The charter for the working group is shown below. 

• (1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission shall convene a working group of technical experts representing a wide-range of stakeholders, to identify, report, and recommend performance objectives, technical capabilities, and technical standards of a not unduly burdensome, uniform, and technology- and platform-neutral software-based downloadable security system designed to promote the competitive availability of navigation devices in furtherance of section 629 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 549).

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Could this be the End for CableCARD?

It’s not often that cable operators have disliked an initiative as much as they have CableCARD. Fortunately, several years after the FCC banned cable companies from including integrated security in consumer set-top boxes, the unbelievably long reign of CableCARD is likely coming to an end, pending Senate approval in September.

Late Tuesday, the House passed the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Reauthorization Act of 2014, which aims to give satellite operators the power to import distant network signals when local affiliate stations aren't available and, some would argue most importantly, eliminates the requirement that cable operators separate security from set-tops in the form of a CableCARD.

Without facing the limitations brought on by CableCARD, cable operators will be able to drastically cut down on hardware costs and more fully support downloadable conditional access techniques. The Satellite Television Extension and Localism Reauthorization Act of 2014 will also level the playful field between cable operators and satellite and telecom TV providers by removing burdens that only apply to operators.

It’s no secret how many within the cable industry feel about CableCARD and the House’s recent vote demonstrates its recognition that it is time for change. Though the House’s vote is a step in the right direction, the battle to end CableCARD isn’t quite over. The bill still needs Senate consideration and approval to become law and allow CableCARD to finally be put to pasture.

Check out the full story on the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Reauthorization Act here from Light Reading.

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North American Cable Operators Visit Korea

A contingent of North American Cable Operators visited Alticast 's Korean HeadQuarters last week and shared their views on the future of cable television. While they were there they took a field trip to visit Korean operators to see some technology in action. Here the executives were viewing Alticast's Downloadable and Exchangeable support hardware that handles the security services for over 5M users. 

They also were able to see native and HTML5 systems with features including companion device integrations and application stores. The highlight of the trip may have been a fun night out with traditional Korean Barbecue.