A distributed instant multimedia communication (IMC) system that allows users to communicate with one another in real-time includes a plurality of autonomous networks. Each autonomous network includes at least one server that supports (IMC) sessions for a plurality of clients registered on the server, and a multi-point switch unit coupled to the server(s) that sends data out of and receives data into the autonomous network, and routes data within the autonomous network through the server(s). In addition the IMC system includes a network coupled to the autonomous networks. The network sends data between the autonomous networks so that the autonomous networks can communicate with one another. Because each autonomous network is capable of communicating with other autonomous networks in a secure manner over the network, two or more clients in one or more autonomous networks can conduct a secure IMC session with one another without requiring an independent service provider.