Abstract: The present invention is for an improved system which integrates the electric objects in a home, office or other space into a control and monitoring network. The possible networked objects include: VCRs, TVs, home entertainment systems, kitchen appliances, light fixtures, pools, alarms systems, environmental controls and weather stations. The inventive system includes a server that controls and monitors functions of networked objects and a remote control which allows a user to enter commands and receive information from the server. The remote device is operable from within the networked space (e.g., in and around the home), and from outside of it (via a modem connection, the Internet, or some other type of external access).

Abstract: A firewall penetration scheme is described for communication between two networked computers. A first computer within a firewall protected network initiates a connection to a second computer. The second computer is coupled to a network of remote clients that are configured to access the first computer. The first computer transmits a message to the second computer commanding the second computer to connect back to the first computer A series of tests using communication protocols of increasing complexity are executed until a communication protocol enabling communication between the first and second computers is determined. If the address of the first computer changes upon connection, the second computer registers the new address upon each change. If the connection between the first computer and second computer is unintentionally broken, the first computer re-establishes contact with the second computer and maintains the connection by transmitting periodic signals to the second computer.