Skip to content

MEDIA & NETWORK SYSTEMS SUBJECT SPOTLIGHT

Media and networking: delivering media modern audiences
with Laurence Murphy from the University of Salford

Try this university course before you apply - 100% free!

Watch a sample episode now

Join Laurence Murphy as he introduces you to Media Networking: the exciting industry that allows us to consume our favourite TV, movies and music seamlessly, on any device. Laurence begins by explaining why media networking is a specific route into networking, discusses media distribution, and presents the three core industries for the media. He then turns the focus to how streaming companies distribute media, with a focus on streaming, servers and accessibility. Taking Netflix as a case study, Laurence then explores how the TV industry has adapted to the rise of streaming services like Netflix. Finally, Laurence looks at how popular titles within the broadcast, streaming and digital cinema industries were shot, produced and distributed, before presenting a fascinating research activity for you to have a go at. Laurence also presents some great career moves as a result of studying DipHE Media and Network Systems at the University of Salford.

Laurence MurphyUniversity of SalfordDigital media, production and technology

All episodes
1. Why is media networking a specific route into networking?
2. How do streaming companies distribute media?
3. Case Study: Netflix
4. Activity: media made in the different sectors

About the university


University of Salford
University of Salford
University of Salford

The University of Salford pioneers exceptional industry partnerships, prepares students for life, and has a global community of over 170,000 alumni. Salford is an ambitious, thriving university and there are countless reasons why students choose to study there. Whether it’s the award-winning academics, warm and welcoming campus, state-of-the-art facilities, or fantastic location in the city of Salford with Manchester’s vibrant city centre on the doorstep. Whatever the reason for joining, students become part of a community with access to the support and opportunities they need to achieve their ambitions.

University of Salford profile →
Meet the academic
Laurence Murphy

Laurence Murphy is Senior Lecturer in Media Technology and programme leader for the BSc Media Technology Pathway programme at the University of Salford, based on their MediaCity campus. He is an active researcher in mobile and internet broadcast systems, High Definition, 4K Ultra HD & 3D television and digital cinema. He is currently engaged in PhD research in changing media technologies and their impact on both the broadcast industries and the viewer. Laurence’s operational career has spanned a range of roles, including a location sound recordist, camera work, and studio and outside broadcast technical management. He is an active camera and engineering consultant for a number of broadcast companies and manufacturers. Laurence began working with the University of Salford in 1992, designing four camera studios within the school of Arts, media and Creative Technology. He led the BSc Media Technology programme, and designed the first undergraduate technology degree in the UK to focus on the newest areas of broadcast media, mobile and internet television. It is a joint programme between the Schools of Media, Music and Performance, and Computing, Science and Engineering at Salford. Laurence was directly involved with the design specification and completion of the University of Salford’s building and facilities at MediaCity, which opened in September 2011. Laurence is a full, active member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and is the institute's PHD student moderator and link officer at the University of Salford. He is a full member of a number of professional organisations. Principally The society of Motion Picture Television Engineers, The Institute of Engineering and Technology, The Guild of Television Cameramen, The Royal Television society, and the British Computing Society.

In every Subject Spotlight you’ll find


On-demand interactive video content

Sign up, log in and access a wide range of potentially life-changing Subject Spotlight experiences that will help you make informed decisions about your university future.

Remarkable & relatable academics

Learn from some of the UK’s finest and most decorated academics as they give you a genuine, insightful and engaging experience of studying their courses at their universities.

Interactive quizzes and activities

Have a go at fascinating interactive quizzes and activities, then get meaningful and intuitive feedback from the academics to see how you’ve done.

Content to enhance students’ personal statements

Hear direct from the academics what’s expected of you in your personal statements, and the things you can do to improve your chances of getting on the course you most desire!

Certificate of completion

You’ll receive a certificate of completion to evidence your learning - why not add this to your CV and university applications to show your dedication to your future pathway!

Frequently asked questions


What is a Subject Spotlight?
Why should I check out Subject Spotlights?
Who is this Spotlight for?
How should I talk about completing a Subject Spotlight on my personal statement?