Quick Answer: Netflix separates its control plane (AWS) from its data plane (Open Connect). Instead of streaming massive video files directly from AWS data centers, Netflix embeds custom hardware called Open Connect Appliances (OCAs) inside Internet Service Providers' networks. These local boxes pre-cache predicted content overnight, serving up to 70% of video traffic locally to reduce latency and ISP bandwidth costs.

When you press play on Netflix, you aren't streaming gigabytes of video data from an AWS data center halfway across the country. In fact, if Netflix attempted to route all its stream traffic directly through AWS, public cloud egress costs and internet exchange bottlenecks would render the business model unsustainable.

Here is a breakdown of how Netflix delivers petabytes of data seamlessly using a hybrid cloud and edge infrastructure.

How Does Netflix Architecture Separate Control Plane and Data Plane?

Netflix splits its system architecture into two distinct operational layers: AWS manages…