Cluster service for streaming media on application layer

A new server clustering technique, called cluster service method under the SIP environment (CSMSE) is proposed. The method is suitable for the application environment of media streaming under the control of SIP protocol, such as soft switch communication system and VoIP system. Unlike the network load balancing method used in Windows 2000, CSMSE distributes traffic on criteria in application layer and does not disturb the mechanism of a network at layer 2. As a result, CSMSE can be widely applied without worry about network compatible problem.