In the United States, a multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD) is a service provider that delivers video programming services, usually for a subscription fee (pay television). These operators include direct-broadcast satellite (DBS) providers, cable television (CATV) systems, and other various wireline video providers (including Verizon FiOS as well as AT&T U-verse) and competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs) using IPTV. The corresponding term used by Canadian regulators is Broadcast distribution undertaking (BDU).

Pay television, subscription television, premium television, or premium channels refer to subscription-based television services, usually provided by both analog and digital cable and satellite television, but also increasingly via digital terrestrial and internet television. Subscription television began in the multi-channel transition and transitioned into the post-network era. Some parts of the world, notably in France and the United States, have also offered encrypted analog terrestrial signals available for subscription.