Abstract: A generic access card is paired with a data destination device by insertion into its card slot, and the public portion of a public/private key is stored in the card. The card authenticates the destination device. The paired card is transported to a data source device which includes a card slot and a removable mass storage medium. The card, when inserted into the card slot of the data source and authenticated, transfers the public key to the source device. The source device generates content encoding keys, and encodes the data on the storage medium. The content encoding keys are encoded using the public key, and loaded onto the card. The card and the storage medium are transported to the destination device, where the card provides the encoded encryption keys. The destination device decodes the encrypted content encryption key(s) and decodes the encrypted data for playback or display.

Abstract: A system and method for distributing satellite television program signals utilizes IP and Ethernet multicast addresses to define and allow the acquisition and/or distribution of a particular satellite television program signal. The satellite program identification data or parameters for the particular satellite program signal are encoded by an IP multicast address assigned to the particular satellite television program signal from a block of IP multicast addresses, preferably by a mini head end. The assigned IP multicast address is mapped to an Ethernet IP address for distribution to an Ethernet compatible component such as a satellite signal receiver or set top box. In this manner, any and all satellite program signals may be provided to one or more satellite signal receivers through IP multicasting.

Abstract: A WLAN compliant device which comprises a VCX), a MAC, a decoder which outputs video wherein said device compares time stamps to obtain a difference.

Abstract: Method (300) and apparatus for validating application level gateway files or firewall rulsets. The method and apparatus include receiving at a bidirectional communications device, an application level gateway file, and comparing at least one compatibility parameter of said ALG file with features of said bi-directional communications device. In an instance where all of the compatibility parameters compare favorably, the ALG file is stored at the bidirectional communications device.