The Video Services Forum (VSF)has announced the release of the 2022 versions of theReliable Internet Stream Transport (RIST) Protocol Specifications:Main Profile, TR-06-2, and Advanced Profile, TR-06-3. The updates include support forEAP-SRP Authentication as well as the recently launched VSF EtherType.The updated documents are freely available from the VSF website for all to download and to use.
This update means that RIST can be used to securely create a multicast content distribution system which is completely open source and a free alternative to proprietary DRM systems. It uses vetted and known protection methods to keep content secure without the need for external keys or devices. Only authorized receivers will be able to decrypt the multicast content.
The new EAP-SRP authentication mechanism removes the need to generate and maintain complex SSL certificates. It also includes mechanisms to de-authorize receivers on-the-fly without disturbing the content. As well as enabling broadcasters and video content providers to create a multicast content distribution system, this authentication method can work as a standalone method for any industry and use case.It can also be encapsulated in both RIST Main Profile and RIST Advanced Profile.
Dr.Ciro Noronha, President, the RIST Forum, commented: “RIST is important for ensuring easy and free access to specifications that are making it possible to contribute content via the public internet. While this update is designed for multicast authentication, the generic authentication method can be used anywhere. Being freely available makes it useful for anyone looking to improve security of their content, whatever that may be.”
The earlier revisions of RIST Main Profile used experimental EtherTypes. VSF has now registered its own EtherType with the IEEE and has revised the specification to use this value, thus ensuring ongoing co-existence with other protocols.
Rick Ackerman, Chairman of the RIST Activity Group, added: “The RIST Working Group consists of industry experts who are using this technology on a daily basis. This helps us to ensure we are working on the right updates that will make a real difference for contributing content over public internet. We will continue to update RIST to ensure that remains relevant and helps drive the industry forward.”
VSF will be once again co-hosting theIP Showcaseat IBC from 9th– 12thSeptember. Taking place in room G102, it will feature a number of presentations relating to the RIST protocol, as well as other innovations for IP contribution and distribution.
For additional information about the RIST Activity group, or to find out about participating in the development of future specifications, please visithttp://vsf.tv/RIST.shtml
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About The Video Services Forum
Founded in 1997, the Video Services Forum (VSF) is an international association composed of service providers, users, and manufacturers dedicated to interoperability, quality metrics and education for video networking technologies. The organization's activities include providing forums to identify issues involving the development, engineering, installation, testing and maintenance of video networking technologies; exchanging non-proprietary information to promote the development of video networking technology and to foster the resolution of issues common to the video services industry; promoting interoperability by contributing to and supporting development of standards by national and international standards bodies. Visit VSF online athttp://www.videoservicesforum.org.
