Finding a pop radio playlist is tough, and there's plenty of other content to be searched for.

Radio is a generic term for any Internet-based radio transmission, including online streaming of music (and other media) and live events. Internetradiosender is a generic term for an online digital audio stream transmitted over the Internet. Online broadcasting is sometimes referred to as internet streaming because it is not broadcast using traditional ways such as radio stations. Instead, the signal is sent as data over the internet so that listeners can download it and play again in their spare time. There are many websites that allow users to tune in to any type of radio online, but not all are created equal.

The most popular online radio stations are terrestrial channels, which offer a large number of music programs from classical music to rap and hip hop. Some popular radio stations online have hours of talk radio shows and feature a variety of musical genres from jazz to rock. Offline, there are special online radio stations that can be downloaded to portable devices such as iPods. Offline stations tend to be smaller and less expensive than on-air broadcasts, but they still broadcast the same program via satellite or cable. Online music streams tend to be much cheaper than the expensive pay per view television program, which makes them attractive to a wide range of radio enthusiasts.

Online radio streaming differs from ordinary Internet radio stations in a number of ways. First of all, the programming material is generally more limited and the radio station itself cannot be personalized as it could be on traditional radio stations. However, the quality of the programs can be comparable to traditional music streaming as both media use digital signals and transmit them over the Internet. Second, internet radio stations broadcast directly to internet users, whereas traditional radio stations have to negotiate with recording companies or air rights organizations prior to broadcast. While the technology will allow the transmission of music content, it has yet to provide the full range of music services available on the radio.