Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for orderly distribution of software modules to various hosts in a cable system. A download manager ensures distribution of required and compatible software objects to various hosts in a cable system. The system abstracts various software dependencies and host-specific aspects from the network operator, allowing easy and efficient update of host software for a variety of host in an otherwise error prone process. The system allows a host to identify itself to the network for purposes of associating the host to a host profile, which ensures necessary and only compatible software modules are downloaded. The system also uses site profile data to determine appropriate software modules for distribution to the host.

Abstract: An intelligent multiplexer is disclosed for multiplexing various types of traffic on a cable network. The multiplexer receives information regarding the traffic currently provided, or anticipated to be provided, including the associated bandwidth and dynamically allocates bandwidth for the various traffics types as required. A rules database may be consulted to determine how the re-allocation of traffic data is to occur. In this manner, flexibility is provided for accommodate various service demands and more efficiently using network resources.