Set Top Box With Firewall

Abstract

A set top box with a firewall is disclosed. The set top box uses two separate ports to communicate with two respective communications networks. The first port communicates with the first network to receive programming information and the second port communicates with the second network to receive information. A firewall, in communication with one of the ports, is capable of receiving and analyzing information from the port. The firewall helps to prevent harmful or unauthorized information from reaching other components of the set top box. The firewall can receive information before other components associated with the set top box and the firewall can include various different forms of filtering.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 029,172 filed Dec. 28, 2001, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to a set top box.[0004]2. Background of the Invention[0005]Many dwellings including single homes, apartments, condominiums, town houses and lofts, have installed a media distribution system to improve the reception of audio and video content. Often, these distribution systems take the form of either a cable television system or a satellite television system. These systems receive a signal from a content supplier, such as a cable television company or a satellite television company. Generally, content suppliers offer a variety of services including different levels of subscriptions, pay channels and pay per view programs. Additionally, newer STBs, like Tivo, Replay TV and Ultim...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The present invention is directed to a set top box that uses two ports to communicate with two respective communications networks. The first port communicates with the first network to receive programming information and the second port communicates with the second network to receive additional information including programming. The invention also includes a tuner capable of selecting a program and a firewall in communication with the second port and capable of receiving information from the second port. The firewall is capable of analyzing the information received from the second communications network. The firewall helps to prevent harmful or unauthorized information from reaching other components of the set top box.

Problems solved by technology

Although access to the Internet and telecommunications networks provides benefits to STBs, there are risks associated with this level of access.

One particular problem with permitting communication with telecommunications networks is the possibility that unauthorized users will gain access or send harmful messages to the STB.

Viruses, commands, spam (excessive e-mail) and other forms of unwanted communications have the potential to cause problems and interfere with the operation of a set top box.

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