Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A plurality of Integrated Devices are provided with an Internet connection and a telephone number. The Internet connection has an associated Internet protocol (IP) address permanently or dynamically assigned. It is initiated when one device calls the telephone number of a called device via telephones on a public service telephone network (PSTN). The telephone number has associated telephone connectivity via a telephone line, such that the Integrated Devices can be connected to by dialing the associated telephone number via telephones on the PSTN. An Internet connection is associated with the calling device; the called device is an Integrated Device. An IP address for a first one of the calling or called devices is obtained and provided to the other device, which initiates an Internet connection therewith by sending an Internet message to the IP address thereof. The IP address of the first one of the calling or called devices is obtained by cross-referencing an Integrated Device's telephone number to its IP address when the telephone number of the Integrated Device is known. The Internet is thereby integrated with the PSTN. Significant benefits, including the richness of Internet communications, become available by simply dialing the telephone number of suitably equipped devices or systems.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim