Abstract: The local network connection system (LNCS) is configured to balance the subscriber network traffic. Load balancing of subscriber traffic can be accomplished by logically assigning each subscriber to one of the available Internet Service Provider (ISP) links. The assignment of subscribers can be based on a rule set that determines which ISP to assign to a subscriber. The rule set can be used to balance the load on the network interfaces, the ISPs, and provide failover options for the LNCS. The system can perform network interface monitoring operations in order to determine if one or more of the network interfaces have ISP connections and are available to transport network traffic over a network, such as the Internet.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a system for identifying and directing requests for network services. During operation, the system receives at a network controller a Domain Name System (DNS) query from a client device. The system can determine if the DNS query includes a pre-defined DNS string. Further, if the DNS query includes the pre-defined DNS string, the system identifies a local portal associated with the pre-defined DNS string. Moreover, the system can direct the client device to the local portal.

Abstract: This invention relates to the management of insurance claims, the processing steps broadly including the steps of obtaining information on a claim, including items of property relating to said claim, such information forming a claim datafile; selecting items of property being claimed by consulting a property register configured and arranged to store items of property owned by the person or entity making a claim; obtaining information to establish a replacement value for each of the items of property relating to the claim; and selecting a method of settlement of the claim and calculating the replacement values for each of the items of property to determine a settlement value.