Peer-to-peer network content object information caching

Abstract

In a peer-to-peer network system, a local node communicates with a remote node on which detailed information about content objects resides and optionally, the content objects reside. The local node uses caching, message request resizing and predictive message requesting to speed response time to user requests and internal control node requests.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of and claims benefit of priority to pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 868,110, filed Jun. 15, 2004 which is incorporated herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention is directed to caching remote directory information and media content in a peer-to-peer network, and in particular to a method that caches such directory information in response to requests for specific items of the directory information.BACKGROUND[0003]The increased use of electronic devices, such as digital cameras, DVDs, PCs, wireless Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), stereos and TVs has resulted in increased interest in networking these devices, particularly in a home environment. Devices such as television receivers (TVs) and stereos can act as “players” to play content while devices like digital versatile disc (DVD) players, personal computers (PCs) and video cameras can act as sources of content termed “receivers...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]The present invention relates to a peer-to-peer network system and methods of reducing network requests for network data thereby avoiding network delays and reducing the sluggish response experienced by users. Further, the present invention reduces response time for network requests originating within the local node. In one aspect of the invention, a local network node maintains a cache of content object information from prior data requests that were received by the local node. In another aspect of the invention, content object information is requested across the network only if it is not already stored in the local node cache memory. In yet another aspect of the invention, the local node resizes a request for content object information to cause a larger amount of the object information than was requested to be retrieved and stored in the cache memory. According to yet another aspect of the invention, the local node anticipates a future request for content object information based on past requests, requests the anticipated remote data before it is actually requested and then caches the content object information when it is received.

Problems solved by technology

While the CDS capabilities support such remote browsing and searching, the user experience may be less than desirable.

During high network traffic periods, browsing and searching across the network often results in a sluggish user experience.

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