US Patent 7159013 Downloading and uploading data in information networks

A method of downloading or uploading data via a client-server communications network, which network comprises a plurality of clients (A, B, 8, 9, 10) each having a local cache storing data downloaded via the network. The method comprises responding to a data request made to the network by a first client (A, 8) by uploading data from the cache of a second client (B, 9, 10) and transmitting that data across the network to the first client (A, 8). Also disclosed are client-server networks operating in accordance with the method and to the related servers (3), client terminals (A, B, 8, 9, 10), browsers loaded on client terminals, and plug-ins for such terminals and browsers.