Methods and systems for routing requests using edge network elements

摘要

The present invention utilizes central offices, located on the edge of a network to route requests along the edge of the network. Once an edge client receives a request for information, the edge client makes a determination as to whether the edge client can provide the information requested. If the edge client cannot provide the information requested, then the edge client determines whether a routing instruction applies which specifies a second edge client. If the routing instruction applies, then the request is routed to the second edge client.