Method and apparatus for network association of content

摘要

Methods and apparatus for perform association of stored content downloaded over a network with a unique identification. In one embodiment, the content is stored locally, and the association is performed in a secure manner using network or source-specific information (e.g., the organization identification or “orgID” of the bearer network or MSO). This association is used to ensure that the content stored on the playback device can be accessed for viewing only when the playback device is connected to the same network from which the content was obtained. Use of the orgID allows the content association and protection functionality to be implemented in existing networks with only minor software changes.

主权项

1. Consumer premises equipment (CPE) adapted for connection to a first content distribution network having a plurality of information sources associated therewith, and for receipt of content via said first network, said CPE comprising:
a processor; a storage device in data communication with said processor; and a computer readable medium configured to store a computer application thereon, said computer application comprising a plurality of instructions which are configured to, when executed:
store at least a portion of said content on said storage device;extract first information configured to identify a second network associated with said at least portion of said content;request second information configured to identify said first network;compare at least a portion of said second information configured to identify said first network to at least a portion of said first information configured to identify said second network to determine whether said first network and said second network comprise a same network;when said first information configured to identify said second network and said second information configured to identify said first network indicate that said first network and said second network comprise said same network, allow playback of said content; andwhen said first information configured to identify said second network and said second information configured to identify said first network indicate that said first network and said second network comprise different networks, disallow playback of said content.