Automated proximity-related network authorization

A method for generating a barcode capable of configuring the media device to access one or more service providers, the method comprising:

• receiving a request from a media device for authorization to access the services and/or content of a predetermined service provider;
• determining the service provider admission requirements that are required by the service provider in order for the media device to be authorized to access the services and/or content offered by the service provider;
• compiling a configuration module based upon the service provider admission requirements, wherein the configuration module contains authorization and/or configuration data for the media device to access the services and/or content offered by the service provider;
• encoding the configuration module in the form of a barcode;
• and
• providing the configuration module to the media device in the form of the barcode, wherein the barcode is configured to authorize the media device to access the services and/or content offered by the service provider.

A portable media device configured to communicate with a wireless network and capable of receiving data in the form of a barcode, the portable media device comprising:

• memory;
• a means for capturing an image of a barcode;
• and
• a processor for decoding and extracting data encoded within the barcode image, wherein data encoded within the barcode image includes at least one of media content, configuration data to access a service provider, and authorization data to access a service provider.