Unlike HDMV, BD-J can access a local or online network connection using secure HTTPS and TCP/IP protocols when connecting to servers and URLs.

For security, it uses the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) for encryption using the  javax.net.ssl package that contains security APIs such as  SSLSocket. They are part of a set of APIs called Java Secure Socket Extentions which is an add-on to PBP 1.0. These networking APIs are optional. Profile 2.0 players (or above) are the only ones capable of network connections. For a BD-J application to utilize the network connection, it must first be authenticated and granted appropriate permissions to access the network. 

 

Many BD titles use the "BD-Live" branding to inform users that the Blu-ray disc provides online features. It was used for news, updates, messaging, downloading new games, multiplayer, streaming trailers, uploading high scores, etc. Most people who have tried BD-Live features were unimpressed due to the lack of exciting extras provided by the major studios, rather than the idea itself. 

Example of connected BD-Live features.

Unlike monopolistic online services like Xbox Live or PlayStation Network, BD-Live is decentralized, meaning they don't share the same server. Studios (or game developers) host their own servers, similar to PC games. As of 2021, Universal was the last major studio to use BD-Live until its servers were shut down. That doesn't mean "BD-Live" is permanently gone. 

Pure Audio Blu-rays use the unique "MShuffle" branding to let users install MP3, FLAC, or MQA files from the Blu-ray disc via a local LAN connection straight from a web browser.

Some studios used LAN to connect with user's smartphones or tablets for second-screen apps. 

BD video games can be used for LAN or online multiplayer or uploading high-scores. 

Sources

• Programming HD-DVD and Blu-ray Disc: The HD Cookbook
• Blu-play.com 
• Pure Audio Blu-ray- MShuttle
  

Author(s) : Æ Firestone