Proxy-Based Software Download Interception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data processing systems face inefficiencies and security concerns when downloading valuable information, such as software products, due to the need for direct server access, leading to time-consuming processes, increased internet traffic, and connection interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an intermediate computer that detects the start of the download process, verifies the availability of a product copy, notifies the source computer to stop delivery, and delivers the copy to the target computer, reducing the need for direct server access and minimizing network traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the server directly delivers the product to the target computer, then the distribution is controlled and secure, but the download time is long and network traffic is high
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediate computer is introduced between the source server and target client to facilitate the download process. The intermediate computer receives notification of the download start, verifies product availability, takes over the delivery, and notifies the server to stop transmission. This intermediary mechanism reduces download time by utilizing local copies while maintaining server control through notification and verification protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the intermediate computer verify the availability of product copies before the actual download begins. The intermediate computer proactively checks whether it has a valid copy of the product ready for distribution, and if so, prepares to take over the delivery process. This preliminary verification enables faster download execution while ensuring product availability and integrity.
2Reliability
If the server directly delivers the product to the target computer, then the distribution is controlled, but the network traffic increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate computer acts as a mediator that intercepts download requests and fulfills them from local copies when available. By doing so, it significantly reduces the amount of data that needs to traverse the network between the source server and target client, thereby reducing network traffic and energy consumption while maintaining distribution control through the notification protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes copies of the product stored at the intermediate computer instead of repeatedly transmitting the original from the source server. This copying approach allows multiple target clients to download from the intermediate computer's local copy, reducing redundant network transmissions and energy consumption while the server maintains control through initial notification and verification.
3Loss of time
If the server is far from the target computer, then the download time increases, but the connection interruption risk also increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate computer serves as a local intermediary that reduces the physical and logical distance between the source server and target client. By receiving products at the intermediate computer and delivering them locally, the system reduces transmission distance and minimizes connection interruption risks while maintaining controlled distribution through the notification and verification mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a corresponding system for downloading software products (from a server to a client) are provided. The downloading of the product is started by the server as usual. Each proxy between the server and the client detects the starting of the downloading. If the proxy has a copy of the same product already available in its cache, the proxy notifies the server accordingly. In this case, the server stops the downloading. The product is instead provided to the client directly by the proxy. As a result, the time required for the downloading is strongly reduced; however, this result is achieved without adversely affecting the security of the process (since it is always controlled by the server directly).