Abstract: A method of distributing content over a network comprising: providing a content file comprising media content from a content source; providing an advertisement file comprising advertisement content from an advertisement provider, combining said content file and said advertisement file into a combined file in playable format, configured such that a location within said combined file of said advertisement content is substantially indistinguishable without playing said combined file; receiving requests from users for said content; debiting said advertisement provider with an advertisement fee; crediting said content source with said advertisement fee; and downloading said combined file to requesting users for playing thereof. The method allows a copyright holder to be paid for the download whilst the download remains free to the end user. The method may for example be applied to file sharing systems or to websites wishing to offer a ‘freebie’ to induce more site visiting.

Abstract: A method of distributing content over a network comprising: providing a content file comprising media content from a content source; providing an advertisement file comprising advertisement content from an advertisement provider, combining said content file and said advertisement file into a combined file in playable format, configured such that a location within said combined file of said advertisement content is substantially indistinguishable without playing said combined file; receiving requests from users for said content; debiting said advertisement provider with an advertisement fee; crediting said content source with said advertisement fee; and downloading said combined file to requesting users for playing thereof. The method allows a copyright holder to be paid for the download whilst the download remains free to the end user. The method may for example be applied to file sharing systems or to websites wishing to offer a ‘freebie’ to induce more site visiting.