Abstract: The multi-service federated content distribution network provides a flexible directory service to define a set of service providers which clients are permitted to use. The directory service interfaces with other computing devices of two types: Either the computing devices includes a group of service providers that want to provide their copyrighted material to users using the directory service; or, the computing devices includes a group of users who have connected to the service providers through web browsing and now desire to download content from the service providers. The directory service facilitates activities to both groups using a digital rights management (DRM) approach.

Abstract: A globally relevant playlist presented. A globally relevant playlist includes track references corresponding to a plurality of tracks. Each track reference includes a global track identifier that uniquely identifies the corresponding referenced track among any number of computers or computing devices. A method for playing tracks according to a globally relevant playlist is presented. A track referenced in the playlist is selected. It is determined whether the track is locally accessible according to the global track identifier. If the track is accessible, it is played. If the track is not locally accessible, the track is retrieved from a track source associated with the track and according to the global track identifier. A method for downloading tracks to a player device according to a globally relevant playlist is also presented.