Services are provided in an architecture utilizing a framework of
standardized interconnection mechanisms that allow for the dynamic
addition of new services that meet rules for the distributed services
network. Likewise, new agents may readily be added to the network. The
network architecture is composed of agent software at the broadband
subscriber endpoint in conversation with server software at the service
provider location. Under the present architecture, certain minimum
service functionality is provided to any subscriber by way of a
registration service for new subscribers, a login service for existing
subscribers, subscriber profile services, connection services and plug-in
management services. Through this network, a subscriber can access these
services as well as additional services that are dynamically added to the
network.