US Patent 11050798 Methods for establishing peer-to-peer communications using distributed call ledgers

An example method of blockchain-enabled peer-to-peer communications is provided. The method is implemented in a communications system employing a peer-to-peer call network to provide communications capabilities between endpoints (nodes) of the call network. The system supports a distributed ledger system which enables the propagation of signaling data to initiate communications between nodes and for recording call data to provide an open, tamper-resistant log of activity on the network. Further, the system supports decentralized applications executable at nodes of the call network to customize call handling based on user preferences. In particular, the system may further support a distributed file system associated with the call network to store internal state data of the decentralized applications. The decentralized applications may thus be executed on individual, relevant nodes of the call network (i.e. relevant to the communications channel). Further, the decentralized applications provide customizable, programmable call handling management within the system.