Encrypted content from a content provider is received at a central location of a multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD). The content provider is distinct from the MVPD. The content is decrypted and processed in a virtual set-top application associated with a set-top of a customer of the MVPD. The set-top of the customer is located in a customer premises remote from the central location. The processed content is provided over a secure data link to a conditional-access encoder at the central location. The conditional-access encoder encrypts the processed content, which is then transmitted to the set-top of the customer.