A scalable Media-on-Demand (MoD) method to a large group of users in the Internet. This method makes use of peer buffering capabilities to collaborate in the distribution and downloading of media, facilitated by a central repository for the search of optimal peers as parent nodes to connect to and for the support of advanced features such as fast forward and backward plays. The method relieves the server load by shifting the media streaming functionality to the client side with high media receiving continuity and quality, leading to well-balanced and low network loads.