Method, network and network proxy for transmitting information

Abstract

The invention is directed to a method of transmitting data information and control information each having a source address and a destination address, from a server, having a server address, to a client, having a client address. The method comprises the steps of transmitting the control information from the server to the client via a network proxy that has a network proxy address, and transmitting the data information from the server to the client not via the network proxy. This system has the advantage that, on one hand, the data information is transmitted directly and therefore without any additional delay due to the network proxy, so that the throughput of the data information is maintained. In particular, a video stream can be sent over the network under real-time conditions. Additionally and on the other hand, the invention provides the advantages achievable by using a network proxy. In particular, the functions offered by a network proxy may still be available in connection with a continuous media service. For example the server providing the media stream may change over time without the client noticing the change. This allows e.g. load-balancing during stream transmission without perturbation at the client side.