What term is used to refer to watching video over the Internet?

The term used to refer to watching video over the Internet is streaming. Streaming allows users to view content in real time without having to wait for the entire file to download before being able to watch it. Instead of storing the video file on their device, users can play the video directly from the source, which is often provided by streaming services or platforms. This method supports a smooth viewing experience as data is transmitted continuously, enabling immediate playback.

In contrast, downloading refers to the process of transferring files from the Internet to a local device, which requires the entire file to be saved before access. Uploading involves sending files from a local device to the Internet, typically to share content or back it up. Caching is a technique used to temporarily store data for future access, which can enhance performance but does not directly describe the act of watching video content online. Therefore, streaming is the most accurate term for this context.