Abstract: A method of downloading and playing a media file stored on a network computer, on a media player having a USB port to input data thereto, comprises the following steps: i) providing a streaming media device having USB wireless radio hardware including an embedded operating system, a controller, a basic input output system which controls the hardware and interfaces with the operating system, a caching system—controlled by the operating system, a data storage capability, and a USB port; ii) connecting the USB port of the player to the USB jack connected to the streaming media device; and, iii) selectively downloading a shared data file from the network computer to the streaming device connected to the media player. In another aspect of the invention the streaming media device is integrated within the media player and the above method deletes the step of designated ii) above.