A method for controlling an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system using
network protocols, such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or FTP. Control of a plurality
of functions, including in-seat and broadcast audio and video, overhead
reading light control, and flight attendant call, are implemented using a
network client, a network server, and a network server program, each
communicating with network protocols. The network client may be visible
or invisible to a user of the in-flight entertainment system, depending
on whether a web browser or a virtual web browser is used as a network
client. The software for each line replaceable unit (LRU) may be
designed, redesigned, or tested independently from other components
within the IFE system. Particular functions of the IFE system can be made
available only to particular parts of the IFE system, allowing different
levels of access to the IFE system for different passenger classes.