NETWORK SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

A system and method for networking. A globally valid address in a Wide Area Network includes device identification information and device location information, wherein the device identification information is distinct from the device location information. This facilitates providing network services for mobile devices. Device identification information includes a persistent, globally unique identity for devices that can be coupled to the network, and for each communication endpoint adapted to be coupled to the Wide Area Network. Network addresses are portable, allowing a network services customer to easily change its network service provider, and supporting hosts that have more than one network interface. Inline agents provide network services efficiently and transparently to users. The present invention provides a definition of network service that scales well and is capable of exploiting opportunities that will be presented by new network technologies.