The process of acquiring a video file in the MPEG-4 Part 14 format from the YouTube platform involves saving a copy of the content to a local storage device. This action allows users to view the video without an active internet connection and archive content for later use. As an example, one might save a lecture or tutorial for offline study.
The ability to archive video content offers several advantages, including preservation of content that may be removed from the originating platform. Furthermore, downloading videos allows for playback in environments with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, making educational resources and entertainment accessible in diverse settings. Historically, this functionality has been desired for personal archiving and educational purposes since the rise of online video platforms.