Simplifying Multi-CDN Delivery with HLS / DASH Content Steering

Content Steering is a new feature in both HLS and MPEG DASH standards, enabling regulating the use of multiple CDNs for streaming. Its key promise is the simplification of the design of multi-CDN delivery systems. No custom client plugins, DNS redirects, or CMS integrations are needed to deploy multi-CDN systems. It also addresses the problem of seamless in-session switching. In this paper, we will review the principles of operation of the HLS / DASH content steering method and explain how to design practical mass-scalable systems using it. We will also survey the current state of adoption of this standard by HLS/DASH streaming clients and related open-source tools and projects.