Abstract: A method and apparatus for encoding and distributing media signals comprising a module for receiving and distributing media data through a communications network, wherein the module performs an encoding process in response to a control signal generated by a controller operating in collaboration with the module.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating encoded media data, comprising a controller for distributing encoded media data to third party users, wherein the encoded media data is encoded in response to a control signal generated by the controller in collaboration with a media source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for distributing a media stream using both unicast and multicast techniques. The method and apparatus comprising a server for distributing a media stream using a unicast transmission to a first receiver within a subnet network. The first receiver is from a plurality of receivers, operating as a primary repeater within the subnet network, using a multicast transmission of the media stream to at least one other receiver within the subnet network. The first receiver is replaced by another receiver from the plurality of receivers in the event that the first receiver fails.