Netflix

Netflix is an American subscription streaming service and production company. It was founded in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph in Scotts Valley, California, originally operating as a DVD rental-by-mail service with a large catalog of discs. In its early years the company focused on movie catalog licensing and customer data management, laying a foundation for its later transition to streaming.

In 2007 Netflix introduced streaming video on demand for members, allowing instant viewing over the Internet. The service gradually expanded to devices such as personal computers, televisions, and mobile devices, and by the mid-2010s had extended its reach to many countries. The catalog combined licensed content with Netflix-produced originals, with licensing varying by territory and region.

Netflix began producing original programming in the 2010s; its first major success was House of Cards (2013). Since then Netflix Originals have grown to include a wide range of series, films, and documentaries such as Stranger Things and The Crown. The company has invested heavily in original content and uses data analytics to guide development and release strategies, often releasing entire seasons at once for binge viewing.

Netflix operates on a subscription video on demand (SVOD) model, generating revenue from monthly subscription fees and, in some regions, an ad-supported tier. It relies on licensing agreements and global content distribution to attract subscribers. The service streams across devices and offers offline downloads in some plans, supported by a recommendation system that personalizes viewing.

Global presence and competition: Netflix operates in most countries, with content availability varying by region due to licensing. It faces competition from other streaming platforms and faces ongoing regulatory and public scrutiny over pricing, spending, and data privacy.