Abstract: A method and apparatus for client-side detection of network congestion in a best-effort packet network comprising streaming media traffic is disclosed. Said method and apparatus provide for quality streaming media services in a congested network with constrained bandwidth over the last-mile link. A client media buffer detects at least one level of congestion and signals a server to enact at least one error mechanism. Preferred error mechanisms include packet retransmissions, stream prioritization, stream acceleration, changes in media compression rate, and changes in media resolution. Said method and apparatus allow distributed management of network congestion for networks comprising multiple clients and carrying significant streaming media traffic.

Abstract: A network for distributing broadband video content from its origination point to end users using a system of video servers, video storage devices, video caches and a broadband transmission network. Video material is initially received from content providers, encoded using a compression algorithm, and stored at a centralized location. Depending on the projected frequency of viewing of the content, it either remains stored at the centralized location for less frequently viewed content, or the projected frequently viewed content is proactively transmitted to storage systems located near the edge of the network close to the end users.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for client-side detection of network congestion in a best-effort packet network comprising streaming media traffic is disclosed. Said method and apparatus provide for quality streaming media services in a congested network with constrained bandwidth over the last-mile link. A client media buffer detects at least one level of congestion and signals a server to enact at least one error mechanism. Preferred error mechanisms include packet retransmissions, stream prioritization, stream acceleration, changes in media compression rate, and changes in media resolution. Said method and apparatus allow distributed management of network congestion for networks comprising multiple clients and carrying significant streaming media traffic.

Abstract: A network for distributing broadband video content from its origination point to end users using a system of video servers, video storage devices, video caches and a broadband transmission network. Video material is initially received from content providers, encoded using a compression algorithm, and stored at a centralized location. Depending on the projected frequency of viewing of the content, it either remains stored at the centralized location for less frequently viewed content, or the projected frequently viewed content is proactively transmitted to storage systems located near the edge of the network close to the end users.