Simple and dynamic configuration of network devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for configuring and managing network devices. The arrival (and departure) of devices on a network can be detected by a monitor. Upon detection, network devices can be simply and dynamically configured with little or no end-user intervention, for instance by automatically loading device drivers and allocating resources for the devices. Furthermore, network devices can be associated with other network devices such as a personal computer to facilitate seamless integration of network devices with a computer operating system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of, and claims benefit from, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 788,596 that was filed on Feb. 27 2004 and that claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 514,867, entitled “Integration of UPnP Devices as PnP Devices within Windows,” filed Oct. 27, 2003, the entireties of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present invention relates generally to computers and more particularly toward control and management of networked devices.BACKGROUND[0003]Plug and Play (PnP) technology allows locally connected devices to be automatically detected and configured to operate on a computer. PnP functionality is integrated into a computer's operating system to allow a computer to detect a newly connected peripheral device as well as install and register such device with a computer system. Prior to PnP technology, it was necessary for users to manually set up perip...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a network device configuration system and method that automatically installs or configures network devices, reducing the burden on end-users. It uses a monitor component to detect the arrival and departure of network devices and can be used with personal computers and non-conventional devices like consumer electronics and home automation. The invention also leverages the existing plug and play system of the operating system to integrate network devices. It supports channel security, authentication, device control, and streaming or isochronous behavior. The invention provides a graphical user interface for managing and configuring local network devices. Overall, the invention simplifies network device configuration and management.

Problems solved by technology

While these technologies allow devices to be accessed and controlled remotely, many consumers have not availed themselves of the benefit of network devices.

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