Nortel Networks Corporation

Michael O'Doherty

Bryan J Miller

Eric Lauzon

Modifications to SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) are made which significantly extend the functionality of SIP. SIP messages are associated with computer software code such as Java byte code, Java applets or mobile autonomous software agents. SIP clients are arranged such that on receipt of a SIP message that has been associated with computer software code, that code is executed by a processor associated with the SIP client. In the case that Java applets are contained in a SIP message these are executed by a Java Virtual Machine associated with the SIP client. If a Java mobile agent is contained in the SIP message this executes on a Java Mobile Agent Virtual Machine associated with the SIP client. Preferably an indicator is put into the header of a SIP message to indicate that it has been associated with computer software code, and SIP clients are arranged to detect the presence of such indicators.

SIP messages carrying executable computer software code

A caller associates computer software code with a signalling protocol messages such that when the messages are received at a destination processor the computer software code is executed. For example, the messages may be improved SIP protocol messages with incorporated Java code. By selecting different computer software code for association with the messages, the caller is able to control the destination terminal. For example, to display information about the identity of the caller at the destination terminal; to modify the behaviour of the destination terminal according to the priority of the call; to take into account the configuration of the destination terminal, and to allow users to adjust this configuration from a remote location.

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London, United Kingdom

Michael O'Doherty