Ad Insertion Methods: CSAI and SSAI

Technically, there are two main methods for inserting VAST-tagged ads into primary content: CSAI (Client-Side Ad Insertion) and SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion).

Client-Side Ad Insertion (CSAI)

CSAI is an ad delivery method in which the player, typically on the client side (on the user's device or browser), handles the entire process of requesting, parsing, and displaying the ad.

In client-side ad serving, the player is responsible for retrieving the VAST tag, parsing the VAST XML document, and rendering the ad content.

This contrasts with server-side ad delivery, where most of the ad processing takes place on the ad server before delivering the ad content to the client.

Video Ad Placement

Pre-Roll Ads:

Pre-roll ads are videos that play before the desired video content begins. Ad duration: 6s/15s/30s.

Mid-Roll Ads:

Mid-roll ads are videos inserted into the main video content at specific intervals (natural breaks), temporarily interrupting the content. The duration and frequency of mid-roll ads: 6s/15s/30s.

Post-Roll Ads:

Post-roll ads are video ads that appear after the main video content has ended. Viewers will see the ad after finishing the main video. Ad duration: 6s/15s/30s.

Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI)

SSAI refers to an ad delivery method in which most of the ad processing is handled on the server side rather than on the client side (user's device or browser). The original video content, along with ad assets (video ads, banners, etc.), is processed by the server.

The server-side ad insertion feature allows you to bypass most current ad-blocking techniques because the ad stream is delivered seamlessly.

How does VAST work in the player and ad server?

VAST works by standardizing communication between the player and the ad server, enabling seamless delivery and display of ads within online content.