Abstract: Packet routing via payload inspection at routers in a core of a distributed network. Packets include subjects and attributes in addition to routing information. The subjects correspond with particular types of content for subscriptions, and the attributes encapsulate the data or content. The routers store, process, and propagate filters corresponding with subscriptions to content. Upon receiving a packet, a router inspects the payload section of the packet containing the attributes in order to retrieve the subject and the attributes and apply them to the filters for the subscriptions. If an attribute satisfies a filter, the packet is routed to the next link. If the attributes do not satisfy the filters, the router discards the packet. These routing decisions are distributed among routers in the network core.

Abstract: A remote control device is provided that is able to be programmed after initial manufacture to accommodate the control of additional apparatuses. The remote control device includes a multi-functional, interchangeable user interface where the interface is modified such that it is able to control the functions of a variety of different types of apparatuses.