A protocol for the interoperability of content distribution networks
Date
2002
Authors
Johnson, Douglas Arthur
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Abstract
The primary purpose of computer networks is to facilitate communication between computers. This functionality extends to distributing content produced by media developers and information gatherers. This has become the primary focus of the Internet, with information taking many forms . Some data is delivered as web pages via HTTP other data may take on any form including delivering large blocks of data representing multimedia content. This process is costly and represents a complex problem of balancing customer demands, network and server loads, and cost. One way to address this problem is to distribute the data to many distribution points. This solution has the limitation of the network's scope and proximity to customers. By connecting several of these networks this limitation can be overcome. This thesis describes a protocol developed to the requirements laid forth by the Content Alliance Group that seeks to provide a framework for this interconnection. This thesis also describes a Best Server Choice algorithm that chooses the best server to deliver content to a client along the fastest route.