MPEG is an set of industry standards that defines media formatting, compression, and transmission types that can be used for systems. MPEG has evolved from computer video, through broadcast TV to Internet protocol television (IPTV) systems.

MPEG defines how channels can be merged together along with how their relative timing (synchronization) can be maintained.

MPEG has multiple standards that were created for different purposes. MPEG-1 (CD ROM), MPEG-2 (broadcast), MPEG-4 (packet media), MPEG-7 metadata, and MPEG-21 for security.

MPEG profiles define the protocols and other requirements for the providing of specific types of services.

MPEG levels identify the values that can be used for services (such as resolution).