Abstract: Prompt and secure data communication paring concepts are described. In one example, a method for data communications includes a client device receiving an advertising packet from a peripheral device, comparing a signal strength indicator for the advertising packet to a threshold, generating a session key based on the comparing, and transmitting the session key to the peripheral device. The method also includes communicating and acknowledging one or more data chunks between the devices through a secure communications channel. The concepts are different that traditional pairing techniques for short-range, low-power wireless data communications in that secure communications channels can be achieved automatically, relatively more quickly, and repeatedly without the need for user intervention. The secure communications channels can be established and reestablished without the need for traditional pairing techniques.

Abstract: A multi-level hosted inbound administration platform for a packet-switched telephony system is provided. The platform provides services for managing the distribution and features of direct inward dialing numbers (DIDs). The platform allows a client to import or purchase DIDs, make DIDs available to sub-distributors, and provision them to end-users. The platform allows sub-distributors to reserve and activate DIDs, make DIDs available to downstream sub-distributors, and provision them to end-users. The platform provides a billing structure for DID usage, with charges being applied on a one-time, monthly, or variable basis. The platform also allows clients and sub-distributors to charge for inbound services based on per-minute or per-usage charges.

Abstract: A distributed resource metering system provides a billing component on a billing client, a billing server, and at least one database. The distributed resource metering system provides billing data in substantially real time. The billing client and the billing server are linked to a network, such as the Internet. The billing server authorizes the billing client to access a service. The billing client communicates with a gateway or another billing client. The billing server monitors the communication and provides substantially real time billing data to a display on the billing client.