What Is a DLNA Certified Media Server?
A DLNA-certified media server is a computer that supports networking and is compliant with the guidelines of the Digital Living Network Alliance. Such a server should, when connected to a network with other DLNA-certified devices, be able to automatically connect with and stream media files to and from said devices.
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DLNA Server History
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DLNA came about in 2003 when Sony pooled its resources with competing manufacturers to create a universal set of connectivity guidelines. The purpose was to make devices from different manufacturers compatible with each other over a network. According to the alliance, their vision is to permit users to "enjoy this content [media files] using any electronic device, and from any location in their home, and beyond."
Compatible Devices
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There are many types of devices that can connect to a DLNA-certified media server, including the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 gaming consoles, the latest smartphones, high-definition televisions, digital media players, digital video recorders and tablets. The only requires are that they are DLNA compliant and that they possess network connectivity -- either via an Ethernet or wireless network.
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DLNA Media Servers
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Any device with DLNA compliance, network connectivity and hard drive storage space can be a DLNA media server. As an example, your computer could be a DLNA server, thus permitting you to download audio/video content and then quickly transfer it to networked devices, such as your television or PS3. Another popular server type is the network-attached storage -- a hard drive that sits on a network and merely stores your media files.
Professional Certification
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To sell a product as a DLNA-certified media server, you must actually get it certified. This entails submitting the device to testing via DLNA’s Conformance Test Tool to validate the device's compatibility. You must also obtain a UPnP certificate and then submit it with the CTT results to DLNA. The alliance will then conduct its own test, and if the device passes, it will then be ready for the retail market.
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