Protected Interoperable File Format

by Microsoft

The Protected Interoperable File Format (PIFF) specification defines a standard multimedia file format for delivery and playback of multimedia content. It includes the audio-video container, stream encryption, and metadata to support content delivery for multiple bit rate adaptive streaming, optionally using a standard encryption scheme capable of supporting multiple DRM systems.

IIS Smooth Streaming is a specific adaptive streaming technology for which PIFF is particularly well suited. Learn more about the related Smooth Streaming Transport Protocol specification.

PIFF provides a simple, efficient solution to the problem of DRM interoperability. It enables content to be encrypted once – rather than once per DRM technology used – for delivery in a variety of scenarios. PIFF is standards-based and provides new efficiencies in the creation and delivery of protected content.

1 Scope And Justification

2 References

2.1 Normative References
2.2 Informational References

3 Terminology And Conventions

3.1 Conventions
3.2 Terminology
3.3 Notation

4 Introduction

5 Protected Interoperable File Format (PIFF)

5.1 PIFF File Structure
5.2 PIFF Constraints On ISO Base Media File Format
5.3 PIFF Extensions To ISO Base Media File Format
5.4 Decryption Flow Of A Protected PIFF File (Informative)

6 Encryption Of Track Level Data

6.1 IV Handling
6.2 AVC Video Tracks – NAL Unit As The Basic Encryption Element
6.3 Non-AVC Encrypted Tracks – Sample As The Basic Encryption Element

7 Formatting Of UUID Data

8 Revision History

Click on the link to download version 1.1 of the specification, updated March 9, 2010: Protected Interoperable File Format specification.