Large scale dispersed storage network using set top boxes and centralized control

A method for execution by one or more processing modules of a set top box of a dispersed storage network (DSN), the method comprises:

• determining cable network parameters when the set top box has a data file to store;
• determining a storage method where the storage method includes storing the data file locally in the set top box as a data file or storing error encoded (EC) data slices of the data file in one or more of:
• set top boxes or DSN memory;
• prepare and send a subscription request message to a DS processing unit based on a storage method of storing EC data slices of the data file in one or more of:
• set top boxes or the DSN memory;
• receiving a subscription request response message and saving the subscription request response as a subscription status;
• based on an approved subscription status, determining a storage method where the storage method includes storing the EC data slices locally in the set top box or storing error encoded (EC) data slices indirectly or directly in another set top box or in DSN memory;
• storing at least some of the EC data slices locally in set top box memory based on the storage method to be stored local;
• sending, based on an indirect storage method, the data file to a DS processing unit for encoding and disperse storing of the EC data slices on another set top box or in DSN memory;
• creating, based on a direct storage method, EC data slices of the data file, in accordance with operational parameters, utilizing an error coding dispersal storage function;
• sending the EC data slices to determined storage locations with a store command;
• receiving confirmation of storage messages from the set top boxes that store the slices;
• and
• saving set top box identifiers of set top boxes where the set top box received confirmation of storage messages.