Method and system for decoupling computation / hosting and user network connection for multi-user online applications

Abstract

This disclosure introduces a system architecture / methodology designed to enhance network communication between online applications (e.g., Massive Multiplayer Online (MMO) games) and their users. The disclosed example implementations provide the ability to expand network entry points for online applications beyond their primary hosting service providers. The proposed architecture effectively decouples application hosting from network entry. Such separation enables online applications to leverage the network advantages of various network and computing service providers, irrespective of the hosting environment, thereby improving communication between users and the deployed applications. It further allows application developers to select hosting service providers based on optimal cost, services, and other criteria, without being constrained by network performance considerations. In essence, this offers a flexible and efficient scheme to enhance experience of users of the online applications connected from a diverse set of service providers by optimizing both network performance and hosting capabilities in a decoupled manner.

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