A data collection is optimized dynamically corresponding to a network load. An information processing apparatus (gateway) of the present technology is configured to allow intercommunication between a server and a sensor via a network. The information processing apparatus includes a communication section (communication section 19) and a control section (CPU 11). The communication section transmits a setting parameter of the sensor to the sensor, receives sensing data of the sensor sensed on the basis of the setting parameter, and transmits the sensing data to the server. The control section determines whether or not processing of the sensing data is necessary before the sensing data received from the sensor is transmitted to the server (S2006).

A network distribution, point (1) for operation as a node in a telecommunications system intermediate between a remote access server (41) and a plurality of individual termination points (1) served from the remote access server (41) by respective digital subscriber loops (30), in particular at an optical fibre/copper wire interface (17), incorporates a dynamic line management system (18) for processing data relating to the capabilities of each of the digital subscriber loops (30), and generating a pro file of each digital subscriber loop (30) for transmission to the remote access server (49) to allow control of the transmission of data to the individual termination points.