Patent ID: 8656421

Claim:
A system for controlling network bandwidth, the system comprising: a server adapted to manage video signals being communicated over a network via channels to a plurality of set-top boxes, including a set-top box, wherein the video signals are internet protocol television (IPTV) signals; software configured to manage video signals being communicated to the set-top box; the software, independent of feedback from a device to which the set-top box is in communication, further configured to: determine whether a timer feature is activated on the set-top box; in response to determining that the timer feature is activated on the set-top box, operate a timer to monitor a length of time a channel is being communicated to the set-top box, wherein the service provider operating the server sets a time limit for the timer based on a type of customer associated with the set-top box; in response to determining that the timer feature is activated on the set-top box, causing the set top box to force a channel change when a user turns on the set-top box causing the timer to be initiated; reset the timer in response to receiving a notice that a different channel has been selected; initiate a request to a user of the set-top box in response to the timer reaching the time limit; and disconnect the channel from communicating to the set-top box if a response to the request is not received within a specified time period.