A
system and method for point-to-
point data streaming over a TCP / IP network. A Sender node serves data to the network, with one or more Viewer nodes receiving the data. A
Mediator node provides administration and security and a static Internet location for accessing the
system. As a result of the administration and security provided by the
Mediator node, the data are communicated directly between the Sender and Viewer thereby minimizing resources and costs required for the
Mediator. The Mediator node comprises a
web server, an administrator and a
database. An optional fourth MediaRelay node is provided to which the data are sent by the Sender and from which the data are received by multiple Viewers. The MediaRelay node permits a Sender having low bandwidth to service multiple Viewers. The Mediator uses versioning control to
upgrade MediaSender
software at the Sender node, and stores in a
database information provided by a Sender during a
registration procedure. At login by the Sender, the Sender is authenticated and the Mediator unlocks the MediaSender
software. At login by the Viewer, the Viewer is authenticated and the Mediator downloads viewing
software to the Viewer.
Authentication is based upon information in the
database provided by the Sender at registration. Upon
authentication of both Sender and Viewer, the Mediator sends both nodes a key enabling bi-directional communication between Sender and Viewer using respective sockets which are maintained until the communication is terminated by the Sender or the Viewer.