Transcoding

technology

Converting video files into multiple formats and resolutions for streaming.

Explanation

Transcoding is the process of converting source video files into multiple formats, resolutions, and bitrates for optimized delivery across different devices and network conditions. Netflix transcodes each title into hundreds of different versions for adaptive bitrate streaming. Modern transcoding uses codec standards like H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and AV1.

Last updated: March 2026