Streaming is evolving fast, and one of the biggest growth areas in the video industry today is FAST channels.
FAST, short for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television, is transforming how audiences watch content and how publishers monetize video without subscriptions.
From Roku and Samsung TV Plus to Pluto TV and Amazon Freevee, FAST platforms are becoming the go-to destination for free, always-on streaming.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain what FAST channels are, why they’re booming, how to launch one, and how monetization works.
What Are FAST Channels?
A FAST channel is a free, linear-style streaming channel delivered over the internet, supported entirely by advertising.
Unlike Netflix-style subscriptions, FAST channels allow viewers to watch content at no cost while ads generate revenue for the publisher.
FAST channels typically feel like traditional TV:
– Scheduled programming
– 24/7 streaming experience
– Lean-back viewing
– Available on smart TVs and OTT platforms
FAST has become one of the fastest-growing segments in digital streaming because it combines:
– Free access for viewers
– Scalable monetization for publishers
– Massive distribution through connected TV platforms
Why FAST Channels Are Growing So Quickly
FAST channels are exploding in popularity because they solve key challenges for both audiences and content owners.
For viewers, FAST offers:
– Free entertainment without subscriptions
– Easy discovery on smart TVs
– Live-like channel surfing experience
For publishers and broadcasters, FAST offers:
– A new monetization model beyond SVOD
– Access to global connected TV audiences
– Lower distribution barriers compared to cable
FAST channels are especially appealing for:
– News and media networks
– Sports highlight channels
– Movie libraries and niche content
– Regional entertainment brands
– Podcast-to-video networks
What Do You Need to Launch a FAST Channel?
Launching a FAST channel requires more than uploading videos — it involves building a full broadcast-style streaming workflow.
Here are the core requirements:
1. Content Library or Live Feed
FAST channels can be:
– Pre-scheduled VOD playlists
– Live streams
– Hybrid channels (live + on-demand blocks)
2. Linear Channel Playout
You need a system that schedules programming into a continuous stream.
This is often called:
– FAST playout
– Channel orchestration
– Linear streaming automation
3. Streaming Output Format
Most FAST platforms require:
– Adaptive bitrate streaming (ABR)
– Multi-device playback compatibility
4. SCTE-35 Ad Markers (For Monetization)
To enable ad insertion, channels use SCTE-35 markers for:
– SSAI workflows
– Platform-side ad insertion
– Dynamic ad replacement
5. CDN Delivery for Scale
FAST channels require a high-performance CDN to deliver content reliably across regions and devices.
A CDN ensures:
– Low latency playback
– High concurrency support
– Fast channel startup times
– Stability during peak viewing hours
How to Create a FAST Channel (Step-by-Step)
Here’s the typical process content owners follow:
Step 1: Prepare Your Channel Strategy
Decide:
– Channel genre (news, sports, movies, kids, niche)
– Target platform (Roku, Samsung, Pluto, etc.)
– 24/7 schedule vs limited blocks
Step 2: Set Up Playout and Scheduling
Use playout tools to build a continuous programming feed.
This includes:
– Playlist automation
– Scheduled ad breaks
– Channel branding overlays
Step 3: Enable Streaming Delivery
Your channel is packaged into formats like:
– HLS for connected TV
– MPEG-DASH (platform-dependent)
Step 4: Integrate Monetization Signals
Insert SCTE-35 markers or enable SSAI workflows so ads can be delivered smoothly.
Step 5: Distribute to FAST Platforms
Platforms like Roku Channel or Samsung TV Plus ingest your stream and publish it inside their channel ecosystem.
Step 6: Scale with CDN Infrastructure
A CDN ensures global performance and reliability for viewers across devices.
How FAST Channels Monetize (Advertising Models)
FAST monetization is built around advertising, similar to broadcast television but with digital targeting.
Common monetization methods include:
Platform-Side Ad Insertion
FAST platforms insert ads themselves and share revenue with publishers.
Best for:
– Simpler onboarding
– Platform-controlled monetization
SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion)
Ads are stitched directly into the stream using VAST tags and ad managers.
Benefits:
– Smooth playback
– Better viewer experience
– More control over ad inventory
Dynamic Ad Replacement
Ads can be targeted by:
– Region
– Device type
– Audience demographics
– Viewing behavior
FAST channels offer publishers a scalable way to generate recurring revenue without subscriptions.
Learn how SCTE-35 ad markers, dynamic ad insertion (DAI), and SSAI monetization workflows work together in our detailed ad insertion guide.
FAST Channels vs Traditional VOD Channels: Key Differences
FAST channels are often confused with standard on-demand streaming, but the experience and business model are very different.
| Feature | FAST Channels | Traditional VOD |
| Viewing Style | Linear, scheduled | On-demand playback |
| Monetization | Advertising-first | Subscription or transactional |
| Discovery | Channel browsing | Search-based libraries |
| Engagement | Lean-back TV experience | Active content selection |
| Ad Insertion | SCTE-35 + SSAI | Pre-roll/mid-roll ads |
| Platforms | Roku, Pluto, Samsung TV Plus | YouTube, Netflix-style apps |
FAST channels are designed for continuous viewing, while VOD is built around individual content choices.
Why FAST Channels Matter for Broadcasters in 2026
FAST is no longer experimental — it’s becoming a core distribution strategy for media companies worldwide.
Broadcasters are launching FAST channels to:
– Expand reach beyond cable
– Monetize existing libraries
– Enter connected TV ecosystems
– Build sustainable ad-supported revenue
As connected TV adoption grows, FAST channels are positioned as one of the most scalable video business models available.
Get Started with FAST Channel Delivery
Launching a FAST channel requires the right combination of:
– Streaming infrastructure
– Monetization workflows
– Reliable CDN delivery
– SCTE-35 and SSAI support
– Platform-ready HLS output
5centsCDN helps broadcasters and content owners build FAST-ready streaming pipelines designed for scale, control, and monetization.
Contact our team to launch and optimize your FAST channel delivery workflow.
