Abstract: A system and method are provided for conducting a client-server application (e.g., instant messaging, VoIP telephony) using non-persistent communications. Clients issue periodic heartbeat messages to a connectionless server using a non-persistent (e.g., UDP) communication protocol. The heartbeat messages identify the clients by unique client identifiers. When an application server has an unsolicited communication for a client (e.g., a new instant message, a VoIP call), the application server retrieves the client's address from the connectionless server if it does not already have the address. The application server forwards the unsolicited communication to the client via a non-persistent communication, and may spoof the connectionless server if necessary to reach the client through a firewall, proxy, NAT or similar entity. Clients that cannot use non-persistent protocols establish persistent connections with a client manager.

Abstract: A system and method for conducting a client-server application (e.g., instant messaging, VOIP telephony) using non-persistent communications. Clients issue periodic heartbeat messages to a connectionless server using a non-persistent (e.g., UDP) communication protocol. The heartbeat messages identify the clients by unique client identifiers. When an application server has an unsolicited communication for a client (e.g., a new instant message, a new VOIP call), the application server retrieves the client's address from the connectionless server if it does not already have the address. The application server forwards the unsolicited communication to the client via a non-persistent communication, and may spoof the connectionless server if necessary to reach the client through a firewall, proxy, NAT or similar entity. Clients that cannot use non-persistent protocols establish persistent connections with a client manager.

Abstract: A system and methods are provided for enabling real-time call control. with minimal requirements for dedicated telecommunications PBX and dedicated switching equipment. Dynamic call routing is handled by a network carrier's equipment and an interface is provided at the carrier switch to dynamically redirect calls from outside of the carrier's network. A call's signaling channel and bearer (voice) channel are separated, allowing the voice carriage to continue to be handled by the network carrier, but the routing of the call is controlled from outside of the carrier's network. A real-time signaling path and interface is provided into the carrier network such that the associated routing decisions and business logic can remain outside of the carrier network, while the carrier network continues to carry the voice channels.