JPH11177626A - System and method for communication network connection - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To dynamically provide a client computer with a network connection while including a task such as the change of static communication setting into dynamic setting by remotely connecting the client computer through a server system to a communication network such as an internet. SOLUTION: The using time of a network is recorded and according to that record, a user receives the demand of payment. Besides, the access software of a client computer 10 can be updated. In this case, an access port (hot access port) 160 is installed to be usable for client system access to extrude a welcome signal from a server system 110 to the access port 160. When the communication connection is installed between the client system 10 and the access port 160, the client system 10 receives the welcome signal.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a telecommunications network such as the Internet or a wide area network,
The present invention relates to a system and method for remotely establishing a telecommunications link with a communication device such as a portable device.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Telecommunications networks are widely known and are accessed by many users. Electronic communication networks are represented by the Internet, online services, e-mail services, and wide area networks.

[0003] There are many means for connecting to such telecommunications networks. A typical example is an Internet connection service provider (hereinafter, ISP) that provides Internet access to individual users. Netcom, UUNet, Erols, etc. are famous. The Internet includes a plurality of computers that communicate with each other using a packet exchange protocol such as a TCP / IP protocol as a common communication protocol. On the other hand, the ISP system connects to the Internet via a high-speed communication network by connecting to an Internet center such as a supercomputer center that forms part of the backbone of the Internet.

Another method of accessing a telecommunications network is to use an online service provider (hereinafter referred to as OS
There is a connection made via P). OSP has a private communication network and additional communication networks for connecting to some functions of the Internet via the private communication network. OSP provides additional information services such as a private information database and e-mail services, e-newsletter services, and games provided by specific OSP members. American Onlin
e, Compuserve, and Prodigy are widely used as OSPs.

[0005] Once a telephone is connected to an OSP or ISP, the OSP
An indirect Internet connection has been achieved through an Internet service provider or ISP, allowing users to send and receive messages over the Internet. In this specification, a “message” is, for example, a digital signal, a URL request, an H
Means all forms of communication such as TML document transfer, JAVA code, email message, FTP transfer, voice music, Telnet link, GOPHER.

As another form of the communication network,
Examples include the "intranet" or wide area network ("WAN") that is composed of individuals. A typical example is a system in which many computer devices are connected to each other in a company. Such an intranet or WAN
For remote access, Remote Access, Wil
Use dial-up connection (described in detail below) in conjunction with specialized communication software such as dcat! and Procomm software packages.

[0007] Dial-up connection is widely used as a connection method to a communication network. Usually, a modem for dialing a telephone number for network connection is connected to a user terminal. Dial-up connections are used to access ISP and OSP networks, as well as other forms of communication networks, for example,
It is used to access intranets and WANs from remote locations. For example, in the case of an ISP, a user modem and
When an "initial connection" is made with the ISP modem, the connection procedure is completed and communication access is possible.

[0008] Such a dial-up connection has the disadvantage that it relies too heavily on telephone lines to make the connection. For example, the operation of the system is determined depending on whether the telephone network can be used, whether the dial tone of the telephone network can be used, and the like. Furthermore, the connection speed is low because it is limited by the narrow band provided through a general telephone line and the speed of an available modem. The modulation speed of a typical modem ranges from 14,400 baud to 5
It is 6,000 baud, and further improvement is desired to obtain higher speed.

There is also a dial-up connection method using an ISDN telephone line and a modem for ISDN connection. But,
While the communication link is faster than other modem connections, it also has disadvantages. Connections are relatively slow, and the telephone network is used to establish a communication link between each user and the communication network.
Although more bandwidth is available on ISDN links, the bandwidth is still narrower than via direct links to communication networks. Currently, ISDN connection modems have a maximum of about 12
A connection with a connection speed of 8,000 baud is achieved.

[0010] When accessing the Internet, OSP or I
Each user's terminal receives an IP address and a DNS address according to the service of an Internet carrier such as an SP.
Normally, each user's terminal stores such an address once, and when a change is made, a series of complicated procedures are required. For example, in order to change the IP address or DNS address once received, it is necessary to manually enter many numbers from the keyboard. Then you have to load and run specialized software, such as access software received from OSPs and ISPs. In addition, OS
If the user uses the P or ISP to access in the usual way, the terminal of each user does not have much flexibility, so when the user wants to access the Internet in another form when traveling, etc. However, there is a disadvantage that it is not possible to flexibly respond.

A further problem is that travelers have to take many steps when making connections at hotels and other places. For example, in a hotel,
Modular jack is installed for telephone connection,
The telephone jack must be used to connect the hotel-installed modular jack to other portable jacks built into portable terminals and personal computers. The hotel's telephone wiring and switchboard systems are
The telephone network is accessed, which routes calls through P, OSP and other communication network entrances. This relies heavily on hotel wiring and telecommunications equipment and raises a series of problems, such as processing at relatively slow speeds and using dedicated dial codes to obtain external telephone connections. When the terminal is accessing the telephone line, the telephone line in the hotel room is in use, so that the hotel dial-up user cannot make or receive calls.

Another method for travelers is to connect via a modular jack (such as an RJ11 jack) installed in a public place such as a telephone booth or an airport pub, but the above problems are the same. To be considered.

Another connection method for travelers is to use a computer communication station, which can be used at many airports, hotel rooms, ferries, and train stations. ATCOM / Info. 308 "G" Street,
A model of such a communication station can be obtained at Sand Diego, California 92101. The communication station provides access to the Internet, access to the OSP, and e-mail services, and charges are usually
Credit card payment allows access to telecommunications services as desired by the user. Certain communication stations use a direct or T1 link for their Internet connection, thus providing a relatively high bandwidth and high speed communication network. One disadvantage is that using only the equipment supplied at the communication station, not the user's own terminal equipment,
Access to telecommunications networks.

The T1 link allows another way to connect to a communication network. While being able to provide high bandwidth and high-speed connections, T1 links are relatively expensive, difficult to install, and are not widely accessed using communication terminals such as portable PCs and microminiature terminals.
There are also many problems. Moreover, T1 links are not available to mobile users, such as travelers at hotels or public places.

Through a cable television system,
You can also use a cable modem to link to the Internet. Problems with this system include the need for specialized access equipment and software, and the inability to move. Moreover, cable modem access to communication networks is rarely available to travelers in public places, hotels and the like. As in other cases, the use of a traveler or the like requires a complicated connection method and requires wiring to a cable television system.

There is also a method of configuring a local area network (LAN) using an Ethernet card such as a 10BaseT Ethernet (registered trademark) card and a dedicated wiring and communication protocol. Ethernet cards are used in many terminals including portable terminal systems, and add-on type Ethernet cards are widely used. However, there is a problem of not making a dial-up connection to the telecommunications network, and by incorporating special network software such as Novell Netware,
A terminal with a built-in Ethernet card must be connected.
Maintaining such networks is complex and requires expertise and skills.

Many terminals connect both an Ethernet card and a modem. The Ethernet card is used for local telecommunications via a LAN, and the modem is used for dial-up communication to an external telecommunications network. Also,
Problems such as high cost of additional devices, further complexity, increase in terminal size, increase in weight when adapting the two devices, and the like are raised. The latter, large size and weight in the mobile terminal are not desirable. Increases in weight and size are inconvenient and difficult to carry for travelers. In addition, consumers who prefer small electrical devices may be concerned about the appearance of the terminal.

[0018] Therefore, there is a need to derive systems and methods for travelers and users who are far from other ordinary places, and for easier access to the Internet at home or office.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system for accessing a telecommunications network with a device requested by a user (ie, the size and cost of a "client device" is reduced). .

It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for automatically changing an IP address and / or a DNS address at each user terminal.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for accessing a telecommunications network at high speed.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a system and method for remote access to a high speed telecommunications network, particularly for travelers and users who are away from the usual access sites.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a laptop,
Provide internet access and online service access using the traveler's own terminal, such as a laptop or other mobile device.

And another object of the present invention is to provide a simpler system and method for accessing a telecommunications system.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a well-controlled network access and a method of collecting money for access from various places such as a rental residential building or an office service.

[0026]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a system for connecting a plurality of client systems to a server system via an access port and a communication link connected thereto, and provides the client system via the server system. Providing telecommunications network access reduces the problems that have arisen when connecting to telecommunications networks remotely. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a client system having a personal computer or the like and client connection software can connect to the Internet via a server connected to server software. The billing amount is measured and recorded by the server software according to the operation of each client system. The server, via a telecommunications network,
Can communicate with network management software.

The server software tracks and controls access trends through individual access ports linked to the server. The server software has a billing function, which provides each client system linked with the server with the option of billing, records the billing method and sends the billing data to the authentication system Receiving the authorization or denial intention from the authentication system, transmitting an authorization or denial signal to the client system, measuring the usage trend of the client system, monitoring the logoff time and the number of uses, determining the billing amount, He does all the work, including adding it to his bill. The client software running on the client system can work with the server software to establish the required network connection, provide data for billing, and start and end the logon period.

The present invention provides high-speed Internet access using a dedicated connection port. The frequency or time of the connection between the client system and the telecommunications network is measured and can be charged based on system usage. The client system is automatically configured to allow access to the telecommunications system and billing. The configuration of the client system is restored when the connection period ends. It should be noted that the system software monitors the connection status via the access port and determines whether or not the connection has been completed in order to determine the amount to be charged. Additionally, network management software provides management of the network from a remote location.

The present invention provides access ports adapted in this embodiment for public places, such as hotel rooms, travelers who are away from ships and other normal access locations, and the like. The local adaptation allows telecommunications system access to be performed at high speed. Provides increased use of high speed telecommunications network access lines connected to a single server, allowing multiple users to access the server. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for high-speed access of a telecommunications network in a place to be accessed, for example, in a building having a plurality of rooms, such as an office building or an apartment house.

In another embodiment, the server software sends an active "welcome signal"("welcomesigna") to a port located on each device.
l "). This active" welcome signal "
Are transmitted continuously or intermittently at a pace of every second or millisecond. Once connected, the client software is applied as receiving an "on-welcome signal". The communication connection is made between a client system connected to the client software and the server. For example, client software is located on a client system where it receives a "welcome signal". And cables or other wiring,
A link is provided between the client system and the port connected to the client system and to other communications connected to the server or internally. When such a link is established, a "welcome signal" transmitted from the server to the port is received by the client system via the link, and an initial connection process and other initial settings are performed.

In the embodiment in which access to the Internet is performed, a network configuration such as an IP address and / or a DNS address and control settings are transmitted to the client computer. Settings such as these addresses are usually required when accessing the Internet. The system is configured to store the configuration and control settings of the client computer, such as the existing settings IP address and DNS settings, and to access the Internet via a remote access port that can access the server system. And control settings (ie, registration settings).

[0032]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a system for establishing easy access to an telecommunications network using a mobile or portable client device. In this description, "telecommunications network" includes computer systems, multimedia systems, video systems, etc., to which a user can remotely access. In addition, the Internet, online services, dial-up computer servers, wide area networks, electronic mail systems, and the like are all included in the telecommunications network. In this description, the telecommunications network is preferably accessed by means for providing online access for the user (or client device). For example, ISPs, OSPs, and computer servers accessed by dial-up access, video database servers, bulletin board servers, and wide area network servers are included. The telecommunications network defined in this description is
It may include a single server computer as found in a single computer bulletin board system.

The "client device" or "client system" 10 described in this description includes the device used to access the telecommunications network and is typically a data processing system. They include various personal computers, Internet stations, television sets, palm computers, handheld computers, notebooks, laptop-type mobile computers, and so on. “Windows” (registered trademark), “Windows95” (registered trademark), “Macintosh”
(Registered trademark), "WindowsNT" (registered trademark), "UNIX"
When various operating systems and various programming languages such as (registered trademark) are used, the above-described client device can efficiently use the system of the present invention.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, the system and method of the present invention provide a client system (client device) 10. This client system 10
Is linked to a server system 110 that provides transmission access to a telecommunications network (hereinafter, ECN) 310 and has a dedicated access port 160 located in a public location.
Is used to directly access the telecommunications network 310 ("ECN"), such as the Internet, at high speed.

[0035] The server system 110, if necessary,
It is linked to the network management server 410 via the ECN 310. The network management server 410 desirably executes network management software that performs bill processing, remote network management, and creation of usage statistics reports. In the present embodiment, the plurality of server systems 110 communicate with the network management server 410 by a method described later.

As shown in FIG. 1, a typical client system 10 includes a central processing unit 20 (“CPU”). The CPU 20 is connected to the volatile memory 40 via the bus 30.
(RAM, random access memory) and non-volatile memory 50 such as a disk drive, CD-ROM, data tape, etc.
A communication adapter (network communication adapter) 60 such as an Ethernet (registered trademark) card;
An input device 70, such as a keyboard and / or pointing or point-click device (such as a mouse, light pen, touch screen, touch pad, etc.); an output device, such as a video display screen and / or an audio speaker; It connects to a removable device such as a ROM drive, a PCMIA port, a removable media drive 80 such as a CD-WORM drive and a data tape. The client system 10 processes the client software 90.

As shown in FIG. 1, the client software 90 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 50. However, it may be stored in a movable medium accessed by the removable media drive 80. All or a part of the client software 90 is loaded into the volatile memory (RAM) 40 during the operation, for example. Each of a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, and an optical disk as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10 generally stores client software (in any form such as source code, compiled, or binary version). Mobile media. In this embodiment, the client system 10 is a mobile terminal, and the ECN (telecommunications network) 310 is the Internet or an online service network.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the server system 110. The client system 10 is connected to an ECN (telecommunication network) via the server system 110.
Connected to 310. The server system 110 has a processor (processor unit) 120. Processor 120 executes a number of software, including server software 130, for establishing (establishing) a communication link between client system 10 and telecommunications network 310. The operation of the server software 130 will be described later. Generally, when a communication link between the client system 10 and an ECN (telecommunication network) 310 is established, the server 110 functions as an interface between the client system 10 and the telecommunication network 310. In the present embodiment, the server system 110 has a communication interface 140
310 can be communicated with. Further, the communication interface 140 includes devices necessary for performing communication, such as a T1 transmission line and attached devices. Further, a communication second interface 150 is provided to enable communication with the client system access port 160.
The access port 160 is an Ethernet communication port. Further, the second communication interface 150 receives communication from the access port 160 via wired or wireless communication. The access port 160 and the client system 10 are configured to communicate using an applied Ethernet link such as an Ethernet card 60 built in the client system 10.

FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 show a typical portable medium for storing server software (in the form of source code, compilation, binary version, etc.) 130. FIG.

The server system 110 includes T1, ADSL (As
It is desirable to communicate with the ECN 310 via a high speed communication link, such as a symmetric digital subscriber line, ISDN, or other high speed connection means.

The communication interfaces associated with client system 60 and server system 150 provide high throughput, thereby allowing client system 10 to take advantage of the high speed communication link established by server 110. Further, the communication interface 6
Preferably, 0 and 150 provide the same bandwidth and data throughput as the communication link established by server 110 and ECN 310, but any communication interface 60 and 150 can be used. In other embodiments, communication interfaces 60 and 150 provide slower throughput and narrower bandwidth than what occurs on the link between server system 110 and ECN 310.

Any form of access port 160 can be used, and a link is established between the access port 160 of the client system 110 and the communication adapter 60. In this embodiment, the communication adapter 60
An access port 160 is an RJ45 access jack.

The access port 160 is provided at a public place and has a communication link to the server 110. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
0 is a (purchasable) communication station provided by ATCOM / Info., San Diego, CA, but other dedicated servers may be used. The access port 160 is a server 110 that is arranged in a distributed manner and provides access to the ECN 310 via the wiring 165.
Linked to a communication station that serves as For example, a 10BaseT Ethernet cable is used. Alternatively, the access port 160 is connected to the wireless communication (line 1).
67 (shown at 67). At this time, a wireless transmission device is provided in the access port 160 and the server 1
10 (especially the interface 150) is provided with a wireless receiver. In the embodiment, a single UTP including a signal conversion wireless transmission device is used.

The communication station 110 can optionally have a keyboard and display to access a local communication network, in addition to remote access through the access port 160. Further, in this embodiment, the access station (port) 160
Is installed in a public telephone such as a telephone booth 169.
In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, another communication station 115 having no function as the server system 110 is also linked to the server system 110. Such a communication station 115 has access port 1
60 may be provided.

In the example shown in FIG.
Are installed in rooms of hotels and motels where the hotel server 210 is installed (hereinafter referred to as “hotels”).
A local terminal 170 is installed in the hotel room. The local terminal 170 may be installed in a public place. Each local terminal 170 includes a keyboard, a display, and a CPU (not shown), and provides a function as a computer. In the local terminal 170, the access port 160 is installed in the housing of the local terminal 170 or a separate housing. Local terminal 170 is linked to hotel server 110 via wiring 165 or wireless communication link 167.

The local terminal 170 may be installed in another form. For example, it may be installed in a cabin of a steamship, a special room, or a public place in the steamship.

FIG. 6 shows a system configuration of an office building or an apartment building to which the present invention is applied. The access port 160 is connected to each residential building 1 where the server 110 is installed.
72 or each office building 172. The house or office building 172 includes a local terminal 170 such as a personal computer or a computing terminal. Local terminal 170 is linked to access port 160 via a cable or wireless link. For example,
The building is wired to access ports 160 provided on walls and floors. The local terminal 170 is linked to the server 110 via the wiring 165 or the wireless communication link 167. In a combination of multiple office and / or residential buildings or other types of locations, a single server 110
May be shared.

In another example shown in FIG. 7, the client system 10 executes client software 90 under an operating system such as a Windows 95 operating system and communicates using a communication protocol such as TCP / IP. These are merely examples, and other operating systems and communication protocols can be used.

The plurality of access ports 160 are connected to the hub 155
And the hub 155 is linked to the server system 110 via the second communication interface 150. Further, the access port 160 may be connected to the server 110 via a local area network.
The server 110 is connected to the router 145 via the communication interface 140. The router 145 is connected to the ECN 310
Or from the ECN 310 to transmit and receive transmissions.

In this embodiment, the user sends an Et message from the network communication adapter 60 to the communication port 160.
Connect a cable 65 such as a hernet cable. Then, the user activates the client software 90 and communicates through the communication port 160 and the server system 110.
Establish a communication link to ECN 310.

The client software 90 is loaded into the client system 10 by means for executing the client software. For example, the client software 90 may be downloaded from an Internet site. It may also be supplied via the removable media shown in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, or loaded into the client system 10 via a direct link such as a serial port.

[0052] The client software 90 may be incorporated in an operating system. In this case, the client software 90 is loaded into the client system 10 together with the client system software.

After the client software 90 is installed in the client system 10, it is executed by an arbitrary method. For example, using the input device 70,
The client software 90 is selected and activated from the options of the “start” menu of the operating system of s95. Alternatively, it may be activated by clicking an icon linked to the executable file. FIG. 11 illustrates the operation of the Windows 95 on the desktop. Windows taskbar 510
Are located below the display screen 75. Start button 515 to open a start menu with options (not shown) for client software 90
Is clicked on the input device 70, and the client software 90 is selected and executed. The client software can also be run using a "Run" option (not shown) in the start menu. In the illustrated embodiment, the icons 520 are arranged corresponding to the client software 90. The client software 90 is activated by pointing and clicking on the client software icon 520 with the input device 70.

The processing of the preferred embodiment of the client software 90 is illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. Step 610 is performed by the method described above.
, The client software 90 starts. At the next steps 615 and 623 after the start, the installation and the setting are checked.

In the installation check in step 615, the client software 90 first checks the installation of the components of the client software 90 necessary for operation in the client system 10, and provides the installation of the missing software component in the processing step 617 ( Present). If a reply of "Yes" is sent (if the installation of the missing component is instructed), in the next step 619, the necessary missing software component is installed. The installation in this case can be performed by any means. For example, if the installation file is already in the non-volatile memory 50,
When these files are loaded into the client system 10, such installation files are accessed. Further, the user may be requested to provide an installation medium such as a floppy disk or a CD-ROM. In another example, the system accesses an Internet homepage or FTP site to download the requested component.

In the preferred embodiment, the server software 130 determines in step 617 that any required software components are missing from the client system 10.
And the client system 10 installs it.

Further, the client software 90 may be updated to a new software version such as an enhanced version or an updated version by a similar method. For example, the server system 130 maintains the latest version of the client software in non-volatile memory or a known remote FTP site.

When client system 10 is connected to server system 110 according to the procedures described herein, updated components of client software 90 and missing software components are transmitted to server system 110. In this way, the user can update the client software.

When the component is installed in step 619, the process returns to step 615 to confirm the installation. On the other hand, if “No” is selected in step 617, the operation is continued if possible (not shown), and the operation of the client software 90 is performed as shown in the “End” box of reference numeral 612 in FIG. Ends.

If proper installation has been performed, the process proceeds to step 623, where various settings such as network configuration and registration settings are checked. Network configuration and registration settings include IP address, gateway address, DNS address, network logon selection,
Includes all settings related to file sharing settings, browse control settings, and other stable network connection configurations. For example, using the client software 90,
A check may be made at this step, such as whether the previous connection (session) has been completely terminated (completed) or if the client software 90 has not restored the client system network settings.

At the end of the connection (session), the client system network setting is restored (restored or restored), and the client system 90 is returned to a standard setting state such as a standard setting state necessary for performing ECN access. It is desirable to return. If such settings are not made correctly, the user will be presented with an option to set standard settings, such as standard network settings. This process is illustrated in box 625 of the flow diagram. If “Yes” is selected, the setting is changed to step 627.
Is restored (restored) as shown in step
Return to box 23. On the other hand, if “No” is selected in step 625, the client software 90
The operation is continued (not shown) if possible, otherwise it ends as indicated in the "end" box at reference numeral 621.

When the settings are correctly made, these settings (installed values) are saved (saved) in the nonvolatile memory 50 such as a disk in step 631. Step 631 may be performed at any time or may not be performed at all.

The operation of the client software 10 proceeds to box 633 in FIG. Then, the network configuration and registration settings are accessed, and the network settings and registration information are loaded into the RAM memory 40. In an exemplary embodiment, these registration information is needed to access server 110. At step 635, system software 90 reboots client system 10, if necessary. For example, in certain cases, changing the network settings requires a reboot. When the system reboots, processing continues at any of the above steps. For example, the processing is continued in response to a request, such as step 615 or step 623 or step 625 shown in FIG. However, if the system does not reboot, operation of the client software 10 continues as shown in FIG. 13 (indicated by the continuation character "A").

In the preferred embodiment, the network settings and control settings (ie, registration settings) required to access the Internet are provided. An example is shown in FIGS. 31 and 32. The steps in this example are performed in conjunction with or replace the steps described above. In this example, the client software 90 executes the client system 1 shown in step 610.
0 is activated. In a step of performing an installation check 615, the system determines whether a component of the client software 90 has been installed. In addition, the client software 90 checks whether the client system 10 is properly configured to access the Internet using the automatic connection system of the present invention. For example, Ethernet
Judgment on an appropriate network communication adapter 60 such as whether or not a card is connected is performed.
It determines the communication protocol, such as whether IP network software is installed. In this example, if the installation was not performed correctly, the software terminates as indicated by reference numeral 810. In this case, a message indicating the correct setup method to the user is displayed on the display. On the other hand, the client software 60 executes step 61
Configure or terminate the system as shown at 7, 619 and 621 (not shown in FIG. 31).

The process continues according to the determination of whether the appropriate network configuration and registration settings have already been set in the client system 10, or provides the appropriate settings if necessary. This is shown in FIGS.
4. Steps 623, 625, 627, 63 in FIG.
1,633,641,643,645 and / or 647
Is shown in Further, in the example illustrated in FIG. 31, an example of another series of steps that can provide appropriate settings is illustrated. However, any other steps that make the appropriate settings can be used. In this example, it is determined in a determination step shown in box 820 whether client system 10 is configured to use the automatic connection system of the present invention to securely access ECN 310 such as the Internet. . For example, in the authentication step, it is confirmed whether or not the contents of the non-volatile memory 50 (such as a hard disk) of the client system are not shared with other terminal systems. When the configuration for secure access to the client system 10 is performed, as confirmed in step 82, the process proceeds to step 830 or
Proceed to step 623. Alternatively, client system 10 may be configured to provide secure access (not shown), or the process may end.

In the example of FIG. 31, the processing step is step 6
Continue according to the determination at 23 whether the various settings have already been set in the client system. ECN3
If the appropriate settings for connecting to 10 have already been made, the process proceeds to step 633.

However, a special DNS address or a special IP
In many cases, a special setting such as an address is requested, so many users select “No”. In this case, if such special settings (ie, standard settings for operation in this system) are already stored in the client system 10, steps 625 and 62 shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, those settings are restored (restored). Then, as shown in FIG. 31, such special settings may be input and registered. In this example, special settings are provided from an external source, such as a local network server or server system 110 connected via access port 160. These may be programmed in the client software 90 in advance. The special setting in this example is IP
Address and DNS address, but any settings can be received and registered. At step 830, it is determined whether the client system 10 is configured to receive an IP address. If the client system 10 is not properly configured, the client software changes the network configuration of the client system and automatically receives an IP address from a server or the like as shown in step 840. The IP address assignment will be described in detail. In order to assign the IP address dynamically rather than statically, the client system 10 assigns the IP address.
Is changed. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step 850 irrespective of whether or not a response such as “Yes” or “No” is received in step 830. Note that such a check step is applied to any system settings.

In any step of this process, the client software 90 may ask the user if he or she has a will for automatic configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, this request is indicated by box 850. “Yes”
In the case of, the process continues from step 860 where the existing settings such as the IP address setting and the DNS address setting are stored. These settings are stored in volatile memory (RAM) 4
It is desirable that the data is stored in both a temporary storage device such as 0 and a long-term storage device such as the nonvolatile memory 50.

In step 840, if the IP address is converted to a dynamic one, the IP address is reset (IP
Step 87 not only for the address but also for other desired settings)
It can be set to 0. Note that any special settings applied for ECN connections using the system of the present invention (ie, special values for specific communication settings) are set in step 870. This can be from an external source 875 via access port 160 or from client software 9
This is executed by receiving a predetermined value stored together with 0 and a predetermined value stored in the memories 50 and 40.

Exemplary processing steps for receiving an IP address from an external source or the like include steps 641 and 64
3, 645.

In step 880, for example, the DNS
Certain settings, such as address settings, are disabled (set to non-configurable). This embodiment provides a dedicated Internet access system utilizing a dedicated domain name service.

Upon request, as shown in step 890, the user is provided with an option to reboot the system. Many modern terminals require a reboot and make special settings. When the user selects “Yes” and reboots, preparation for starting connection with the ECN 310 via the access port 160 is completed. Processing can continue, as indicated by the continuation character "X" in FIGS. If “No” is selected, the setting is restored (restored), and the client software 90 ends.

Subsequent to the reboot, the client system 10 is configured with desired settings such as an IP address.
When the client system 10 reboots, the special settings provided in steps 870 and 880 are used to perform initialization (initialization) of the client system 10 as shown in step 900. Initial setting 90
After a zero, as shown in step 910, the original settings are restored by restoring them from long-term storage in memory (such as non-volatile memory 50 or removable media via drive 80). This step, in conjunction with step 633, may include saving the special settings to non-volatile memory 50 or removable media 80 for later use. Such settings are used the next time the client system 10 reboots. In this step, for example, the system restores the IP address settings and / or DNS address settings saved in step 860. In this way, the client system 10 is returned to its original configuration (saved in step 860) after a communication period (communication session) with the ECN 310 and after a reboot. As shown in step 920, the client system is ready for a connection with the ECN 310, and the client system 10 can communicate to the Internet or the like via the ECN 310. During that period (session)
It allows to start with various of the processing steps described below. For example, it is possible to start with a billing step, such as steps 648 and 649.
However, in the case of presetting, the billing step may be skipped. In such a case, the process starts from step 665 described below.

In the above embodiment, before the client software 90 is activated on the client system 10, the client system 10 connects to the port 160 connected to the server 110 via the wiring 65 between the communication adapter 60 and the port 160. Connected to. Note that other connection forms such as wireless connection can also be applied.
In another embodiment, the client software 90
Starts before the client system 10 is wired to the port 160 via the wiring 65 or the like.

FIG. 13 shows an exemplary connection step as an initial connection (handshake step) in each embodiment. The client software 10 requests (requests) necessary information from the server 110 via the above-described access port 160 and the communication system. For example, the request is first transmitted from the CPU 20 to the network communication adapter 60 through the bus 30, and then transmitted to the access port 160 through a wire connected to the network communication adapter 60. The request is then sent to the server via either cable 165 or wireless link 167 via interface 150 in the server. In particular, the requested information may be dynamically allocated an IP address corresponding to a local area network partially configured as access port 160, as shown in the example already associated with step 870 of FIG. including. The IP address is a unique address for identifying a client system in a network context.

At step 643, the assignment of the IP address is received from the server and, preferably, at the next step shown in box 645, the removable media via the memory (RAM memory 40, non-volatile memory 50 and / or drive 80) Which memory). As shown in step 647 of FIG. 13, the assigned IP address is reported by the client software to the server access control software running on the server 110. In this system, the server 11
This is effective for the server 110 to determine a specific client system 10 when a plurality of client systems 10 access 0 or when a plurality of access ports 160 are available.

FIG. 14 shows another connection step. When an authentication (confirmation) request is transmitted from the client system 10 shown in step 641 and a confirmation signal is received from the server as shown in step 643, the client software 90 goes through a discrimination loop for performing periodic discrimination. . There, any authentication request or confirmation signal can be used. Please note that the verification request is
Preferably, the server is for assigning an IP address to the client system, and the confirmation signal is the IP address. If no acknowledgment signal is received, another request is sent to the server 110 as shown in step 641. Note that the client software 90
Other requests may be sent after a period of waiting time as shown in step 642. The predetermined or calculated waiting time is selectable by the user. For example,
Microseconds, milliseconds, one second, five seconds, and other time periods can be selected. Client software 90 can continue to send requests to server 110 by using the processing loop in this manner. When the client system 10 is not connected to the port 160, the request can be continuously transmitted until the request is received. By sending the request in step 641, the client system 10 can try sending the request, but when the client system 10 is not connected or when there is another cause of interruption or interruption during communication (wiring Miss, system in use, interference, and server not accessible from port 160), the request is not sent to the server. When the connection is completed, the server 110 can receive the request and transmit a confirmation signal such as an IP address, so that the process of step 643 can be continued.

FIG. 15 illustrates another connection step. In steps 638 and 639 of this figure, the client software 90 periodically determines whether or not the welcome signal 749 from the server 110 has been received through a determination loop. At this time, the welcome signal 74
If 9 (shown in FIG. 29) has not yet been received, client software 90 continues to check whether it has been received. Note that, as shown in the waiting step 639, the predetermined or calculated waiting time is selected by the user, so that the client software 90 checks the welcome signal after the fixed waiting time.
For example, selections can be made over parts per million seconds, milliseconds, one second, five seconds, and other periods. By using the processing loop in this manner, the client software 90 can wait for a connection with the server 110.

Further, the server transmits to each port 160 an active welcome signal 749 for making each port available (hot port) together with a welcome signal provided to each connected client system 10. In this manner, when the client system 10 is connected and the software 90 is activated, the client system 10 can receive the welcome signal 749 and start the initial connection procedure. Note that the welcome signal 749 may be any type of signal. With this system, the welcome signal 7
49 can initiate the connection of the communication system via the server 110. Also, the server system 110
Sends a welcome signal 749 to all ports 160 regardless of whether a client system is connected. For example, the welcome signal 749 may be transmitted to the server system 11 before and after being received, such as during an initial connection period or during a period between the ECN 310 and the client system 10.
0 to continue to port 160 for transmission. Thus, port 160 can be enabled (hot). On the other hand, the server 110 can interrupt the transmission of the welcome signal 749 to the port 160 already connected to the client system 10.

When the client system 10 has the port 160
If not, it can continue checking until it is received. Then, upon receiving the welcome signal, the client system software 90 proceeds to step 641 and transmits a request for an IP address to the server 110 so that the connection procedure can be continued. In another embodiment, a visual or audible notification is sent to the user regarding the connection to the server. For example, an icon is displayed on the screen, a beep sound is generated from a speaker, or connection software is loaded.
At any stage of the initial connection, an authentication is sent. that is,
Preferably, it is transmitted after reception of the welcome signal, as indicated by the arrow to the exit of box 640.

FIG. 13, FIG. 14, and FIG. 15 are made for the purpose of illustration, and show the client system and the ECN.
It should also be related to the connection procedure to and from 310. For example, step 63 in FIGS.
8,639,641,642,643 may be connected respectively.

The client software 9 shown in FIG.
When the process of 0 is started, the user connects the cable 65 to the port 160 as this embodiment. The server continues to send the welcome signal 749 to the port 160 continuously or periodically, as indicated by reference numeral 745.
On the other hand, as shown in box 910, the client software 90 turns on in the client system.
For example, the client software 90 is turned on by clicking an icon, by a program menu, or by using a function such as "Run" of the Windows operating system. On the other hand, the ON command of the client software 90 is included in the startup stage of the client system 10. It allows the client software 90 to start whenever the client system starts. In this embodiment, the client software runs in the background (ie, memory area) until receiving the welcome signal 749. In this embodiment, the client software 90 can automatically start an interface such as a browser or special Internet access software that provides an image environment to the user. Then, as shown in box 920, the client system waits to receive a welcome signal associated with steps 638 and 639. On the other hand, the client system performs steps 641, 642,
643, a request signal is sent to the server 1 periodically.
Send to 10. So, as shown in box 930,
The user connects the cable 65 to the port 160,
Client system 10 (or adapter 60 there)
And a wire between the port 160. Other forms of connection, such as a wireless connection, are started in this step.
The welcome signal 749 can be transferred from the port 160 to the client system 10, as shown in box 940. This corresponds to the "Yes" line between steps 638 and 641 in FIG. Then, as indicated by reference numeral 641, the processing for performing the initial setting or initial connection procedure is continued.

The access port 160 in this embodiment is an available access port (hot access port) and can start communication with the client system at any time. The illustration in FIG. 30 is a usable access port applied to the present invention. As shown, the active welcome signal 749 is sent to the access port via a communication link from the server to the access port 160. Note that a wired link 165 is shown, although a wireless link configuration can be used.
The access port is usable because it has a welcome signal 749 transmitted in the direction of the access port whether or not the client system is connected, and is effectively the active emitter of the welcome signal 749. FIG. 30 shows the client system 10 connected to an available access port 160 via a cable 65. Once the cable 65 is connected, a welcome signal arrives at the client system via the access port and the cable 65. Wireless systems without cable 65 are also used.

In this embodiment, unmeasured or uncalculated access may be provided, but the user of client system 10 is charged for access to ECN 310. There are two examples of billing methods,
Time calculation request and operation reference request. When billing is desired, the client software 90
Start to execute the setup procedure in which the credit card information and the like are stored in the memory. In this embodiment,
In the setup stage, the user replies with the validity of the billing content or credit card information. On the other hand, the client system includes a credit card decoder (not shown) for reading credit card information from an encoded magnetic tape of the user's credit card. On the other hand, a smart card having an encoded computer chip and a client system 1
0 can be used jointly with a smart card reader (not shown).

In the next step of the billing embodiment, the client software checks whether the billing information has been previously stored in memory. If the user has previously saved the billing information during the setup phase, this information can be retrieved from memory at any time. On the other hand, software 90
Checks the stored billing information, and if found, sends "Yes" at step 648. Conversely, if not found, a series of request processing for the bill information requested by the user is continuously performed (steps 649 to 653). In another embodiment, no billing is needed, so step 66
Continue up to 5.

In step 648 of the illustrated embodiment, if a "No" reply arrives, the server 110 can request a billing option, as shown in box 649 of the flow diagram. Also, the server software 130 may be configured to automatically send or “push” billing options to the client software 90, or to provide the client software 90 with a billing option to pre-store, Or an invoice option supplemented by information from In a preferred embodiment, server 110 submits a form of billing software that provides information to client software 90 over the connection described herein. For example, such billing options include credit cards, prepaid access cards, smart cards, and methods for billing hotel room bills directly. In the illustrated embodiment, when a bill option is received in step 651, a bill option menu or series of menus is displayed in step 653. In this embodiment, an entry column for credit card information is displayed, and the client system 10
User fills in the necessary items. When the entry is completed, for example, the process returns to step 648 to continue the processing. Once sufficient bill information is received, stored, and entered, the bill information is preferably transmitted to bill software running on server 110. Such billing software is a separate software module from server software 130, but is preferably part of server software 130. This step
Shown in box 659. This bill information is desirably stored in the server 110 for the latest access and bill report.

[0087] In step 659, once the billing information has been completed and transmitted, server software 130 or the billing software component approves or denies the billing information. As shown in step 661, the client software 90 waits for a determination of approval or denial. This authorization process is performed by transmitting information at the bill processing center via ECN communication. If billing is denied (ie, rejected), a message is displayed on display 75, as shown in box 667, to indicate another billing method, further billing information, and communication period. Provide options to the user, such as exit. At box 668, the user's decision is processed. At this time, if the user enters another billing method or other billing information to clearly indicate that he / she wants to continue, the process proceeds to step 649 (requesting a bill option) or step 653 (bill). Menu display)
Return to Conversely, if it is clarified as “No” that the user has no intention to continue processing, the communication period ends.

As shown in step 661, the authorization and denial signals are sent by server software 130 to client software 90. When billing is approved, the server software 130 enables the client system 10 to track the IP address assigned to each client system 10.
Give access to ECN 310. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the client software 90 receives the approval / disapproval decision, and the server software 130 tracks the user's IP address from the server 110 to the ECN via the interface 140 and the router 145, thereby enabling the Internet. 310 (a type of ECN).

The box diagram 665 in FIG. 9 shows the ECN access period. In this embodiment, since the user will be connected to the Internet, any form of browser or other form of Internet access software will be applied. For example, the user can connect to other forms of ECN, such as online services. On the other hand, users have access to dial-up servers,
Alternatively, by accessing a wide area network, a database, a dial-up server that provides electronic bulletin board system access, and the like, an option is provided to enable the initiation of telephone communication.

During the period of operation on the desktop 75 such as Windows 95, the client software 9
A display while 0 is loading and a display while establishing a link to ECN 310 is shown in FIG. 16 as an exemplary display screen display. The Windows task bar 510 and the “start” button are located below screen 75. The active icon of the client software 90 is located at the lower left of the screen 75. “IDT” in the client software 90 may use another name or symbol. Activity box 54
5 is displayed on the screen 75. In this embodiment, such an activity box 545 is displayed to indicate that a connection is being established. The activity box 545 indicates that the client system 10
Notify that ("terminal") is configured to access ECN 310 ("high speed Internet access").

The screen shown in FIG. 17 shows an exemplary display screen of the bill option, and corresponds to step 6 in FIG.
53 is a menu displaying a process 53. Various invoice options will be displayed and the user will be able to select the "invoice form"
Select Various menu forms and selection screens are available, and there may be any number of options. In this embodiment, the user can select one of a credit card, a smart card, a hotel room bill, or a prepaid card. Other options such as debit card billing, prepaid access card, Internet banking, and electronic checks can be provided. For example, it is possible to apply an interactive box for entering a credit card number or hotel room number, and / or other arrangements. For example, an interactive box for entering the expiration date of the credit card, the name of the credit card, or the number of the prepaid access card can be used. Since a large number of bill screens can be displayed at the same time, for example, in this embodiment, the first screen is a bill form selection screen. After the selection, the client software displays another screen (or there may be no next screen) according to the claim mode selection. For example, if a credit card payment is selected, the next screen displays a form for entering necessary data such as a credit card number and an expiration date. Alternatively, the client software 90 may include pre-stored billing information, such as credit card or prepaid deposit data. In another embodiment, after selecting a bill form, the client software 90 checks the stored data according to the bill form and loads it if found. However, if such data is not found, the client software 90 displays a screen (form or the like) for entering billing information. Such bill-related inquiries and menus are created by the server software 130 and transmitted to the client system 10.

FIG. 18 shows the client software 90.
FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary display screen when the ECN connection is completed when the system is operating on an operating system such as WINDOWS 95. Step 665 in FIG.
It corresponds to. It has a Windows taskbar 510, an active icon 540 corresponding to the client software 90, and a minimized button 550. In addition, pointing and clicking using the input device 70, such as a mouse, a touch pad, and a touch screen,
Select the minimized button 550. After the selection there, a selection screen of the client software 90 is displayed. The selection screen has various options such as setup configuration and connection termination. During the connection, for example,
An ECN display 560 such as a homepage, online service, e-mail, or FTP menu is displayed on the screen.

During the ECN connection, the client software 9
With 0 and the server software 130, the work of various processing steps can be started. For example, the client software 90 periodically sends a signal to the server software 130 for confirming the continuation of the ECN connection. As shown, the client software 90 sends a control signal to the server software 130 every five minutes to indicate the ECN connection. FIG. 19 illustrates a timing loop processing step initiated by the server software 130. As shown in FIG. 19, the server software 130 includes a timer 721 for providing a clock signal.
In the timing loop, after the clock signal 722 is received, the reception of the preceding periodic confirmation signal 724 from the client software 90 of the client system 10 determines whether or not (here) a 5-minute waiting time has elapsed. Is determined. Then, after the elapse of the waiting time, the server software 130 checks whether or not the periodic check signal 724 has been received. So, if not received,
The server software 130 terminates the ECN connection as indicated by processing step 726. By terminating the ECN connection, the server software 130 releases the IP address assigned to the specific client system 10. In such an example, client system software 90 cannot maintain a connection to server 130. However, if a "No" signal is generated at step 725, then as shown at processing step 727, the server software will access the
A cutoff signal is transmitted to 60. If the client system 10 is still connected to the access port 160, the client software 90 receives the cutoff signal and performs a cutoff process. The physical connection between the access port 160 and the client system 10 may be interrupted before the client software shuts down (details will be described later). For example, the user may block a link such as a cable between the access port 160 and the client system 10 without starting the blocking process. Alternatively, the connection between the client system 10 and the server 110 may be interrupted by the client software 90 before the shutdown process.

The server software 130 periodically executes the EC
A signal for confirming the continuation of the N connection is sent to the client software 90. The server software 130 sends a control signal indicating the ECN connection to the client software 90, for example, every five minutes. In addition, the server software periodically updates each client system 1 at predetermined time intervals.
Send a polling signal to 0. This periodic polling signal requests a confirmation signal response from each client system 10. By receiving the polling signal from the server software, the client system 1
0 client software 90 can return a confirmation signal. If an acknowledgment signal is not returned, the server software 130
The ECN connection of No. 0 is terminated, and the shutdown code is transmitted to the access port 160 corresponding to the specific client system 10. However, when the client system 10 is connected to the access port, the client system software 90 receives the shutoff code and goes through the shutoff process.

When the periodic confirmation is not received, or when the
When "No" is transmitted in step 5 or when the connection between the server 110 and the client system 10 is interrupted by the client software (as shown in FIG. 20 and described below)
If the connection fails, such as when the connection was cut off without going through
Server software works on bill calculation and ECN
Send the billing data via 310 to the appropriate billing company or processing station.

FIG. 20 shows a cut-off process to be performed by the client software 90. During operation of the client software, such as during an ECN connection (box 665 in FIG. 13), or at any other time, the user of the client software 90 can initiate the blocking process. This is done by pointing to the shut off button (displayed as "End Communication" or "Off" or "Stop") on input device 70 such as a positioning or click system. Such a shutdown request is indicated by box 731 in FIG. Then, in step 732, the client software 90 displays the cutoff option
Is displayed, and the user confirms the interruption. FIG. 21 shows an exemplary blocking option screen 565. A selection can be made on this exemplary block option screen 565, i.e., the user either approves the block selection 567, or negates the block selection 569 and returns to the ECN connection to return to the operation of the client software and establish the connection. It is possible to continue. In this example, the user selects “Yes” 567 to shut off using the click device, and selects “No” 569 to continue the connection. Client software 9
When the option 567 is selected in the operation of 0, that is, when the interruption is confirmed, “Yes” is determined in step 7 of FIG.
Returned at 33. If no acknowledgment of shutdown is received by selection of option 569, "No" is also returned at step 733.

When "Yes" is returned in step 733, the client software transmits a cutoff signal to server software 130 to request termination of ECN communication as shown in step 734. On the other hand, if "No" is returned, the client software returns to other processing such as operation recording and ECN communication. The shutoff signal is sent to the billing portion of server software 130 (described below). The server software 130 reports the billing data to the client software 90, as shown in process step 735 where the receipt of the billing data occurs. In a next step 737, the client software displays the billing data according to the information received from server software 130.

FIG. 22 shows an exemplary invoice display screen 570 as displayed in connection with step 737;
This screen displays all data. As in the example of this figure, the connection time 572 and the total amount 574 are displayed. Other data may be displayed, such as, for example, access to services, fees, hotel room charges, and incidental charges. Also, the bill display screen 570 is
Used to overlap or replace another display screen, for example, a “Good-bye” screen, a “log off” screen, or the like is displayed. Other messages and characters, such as various services provided, are displayed on a bill screen, a previous screen, or a screen to continue. Such other screens and messages are shown in FIG.
1 is displayed in association with the end step 739.

At the end step 739, the operation of the client software 90 ends. Before the end step 739, the processing step
Do the work to do the end. In a preferred embodiment, the setting data is stored in the non-volatile memory 50. For example, the saved network initialization in step 631 is returned. Note that the terminal is rebooted as necessary. With this end processing, the operation of the client software 90 ends. End step 73
9, the active icon 540 and the minimized icon 550 are no longer in the taskbar 410
Is not displayed on

The server software 130 has a number of functions, which communicate with a number of client shifts 10 through the access port 160, control billing functions, maintain a database for clients. , After monitoring access port 160,
It transmits to the ECN 310 to communicate with a remote billing system or network management system 410. Some functions of the server software 130 have been described, and the functions will be further outlined. The server software 130 includes the client system 10 and the client system software 9
It has a function of communicating with the ECN 0 and starts ECN communication between each client system 10 and the ECN 310. The server software 130 allows the client software 90 to be activated and communicate with a plurality of client systems 10 at the same time. On the other hand, a single client system 10 either communicates with its server software 130 or does not. The server software has many functions for processing operations of the server 110, such as initial settings and port tests.

In this embodiment, the server software 130 has a plurality of connected modules and objects. The graphic depiction shown in FIG. 23 is formed by a central processor 111, a billing module 112, a server link module 114, an access control module 116, and a system fault module 117. This figure shows that the modules operate in conjunction with each other. In other embodiments, all or some of these modules operate independently of other modules.

(FIG. 13) As shown in step 641,
When the client software 90 makes a dynamic IP address acquisition request, the server software 130
(Or the access control module 116) receives the request and responds appropriately, and then
Then, the client software receives the reply.
Similarly, in step 649, the client software 9
If 0 requests a list of billing options, the server software later sends the list of billing options that the client software receives in step 651. The trend of the server software 130 regarding this billing option is shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. As shown in box 751, server software 130 receives a request from client software 90. In step 755, if no request has been received, the process waits as indicated by the “No” arrow. On the other hand, when the request is received, the billing option is sent to the client system according to “Yes” shown in step 759. Then, in step 763, the server
Wait for receipt of billing information.

According to the transmission loop indicated by reference numerals 745, 746, and 747 in FIG.
A welcome signal 749 is transmitted to the port 160. When the welcome signal 749 is transmitted, the system determines whether an acknowledgment has been received, as indicated by the confirmation step 746. In the illustrated embodiment, the determining step 746 determines whether a request for an IP address has been received, as well as determining other acknowledgment signals. If the confirmation signal is not determined in step 746, the welcome signal returns to step 745 and is transmitted. In step 747, if there is a waiting time, the welcome signal is transmitted according to the waiting time, or otherwise, as it is. Note that the predetermined or calculated waiting time is selected. The server software 130 sends a welcome signal 749 to all assigned ports 160 regardless of the presence or absence of the connection. When the connection is made, the welcome signal 749 is transmitted to the client system 10 via the port 160 as described above. Also, the welcome signal 749 can contain any information, but is preferably short enough to indicate that it is connected to the server. In addition, the signal is transmitted in analog or digital. In case of digital, welcome signal 7
49 includes one or more bits or bytes.

If it is determined in step 746 that the confirmation signal has been received, the server system proceeds with the initial connection procedure. In the preferred embodiment, the server software sends the IP address to client system 10, as shown in box 748.

In an embodiment relating to billing according to access time, if the user of the client software 90 sends billing information to the server software in step 659, either the server software or the billing module 112 may use the billing authorization procedure. To start.
When this bill information is received by the server software 130, an operation indicated by "Yes" in step 763 is performed. As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, in this embodiment, the server software 130 authorizes access to the temporary ECN even if the billing authorization has not been issued as shown in step 767, and The proper authorization signal is transmitted to the client software 768. The effect of this temporary access is that access can be made with a slight delay in consideration of the time during which access cannot be performed until the billing authorization finally drops. Also, the client software 9
0 displays a message on the display device 75 that notifies the user that temporary access has been granted while the billing authorization process is continuing. The temporary authorization and final authorization are sent to the client software 90 as shown in step 661.

As shown in step 771, during the billing authorization process, the server software 130
The invoice creation information is transmitted to the invoice authorization server via. If you need a credit card authorization,
The bill approval server acts as a credit office or credit card service server. On the other hand, the bill approval request is sent to any bill approval server via the ECN 310. For example, if a prepaid access card is being used, the authorization request is sent to the issuer of the prepaid access card.

The invoice authorization server authorizes the processing,
You can approve or deny credit. For example, if the entire amount of the prepaid access deposit has been consumed, the processing is rejected, but the authorization is made if the credit card is valid. Steps 775 and 777
Indicates the accept / reject receipt action. If approved in step 775, an authorization signal is sent to the client software 90 as shown in box 776 and the
61 shows the trend of receipt. Then, the valid user information is added to the activity database maintained by the server 110.

FIG. 27 illustrates the activity database. Additional information and change information are stored in this activity database. In this database, the data is shown for illustrative purposes as "XXX", "YYY", "NNN". The activity database records a variety of information indicating the server's trends. Especially,
Various data indicating the operation of the access port 160 linked to the server and the state of the access port 160 are recorded. For example, the on / off state of the access port can be recorded. The access port in the ON state records appropriate user information such as ID, billing information, and login time. For example, the IP address of the client system imposed on the client system 10 as a temporary address; the client system 60
Client network card MAC address, which is stored in the associated hardware-based certificate; Server network card I, which is the server interface card
D; user name of access port 160 used for fast matching with that of external database; FIG.
As shown by “1” and “2” of 7 and “N” indicating the ordinal number of the access port 160, a port ID which is an individual access port number of each access port 160; the access port 160 is linked to the designated room It is convenient for use in the building because it is used in the embodiment of the hotel, steamer, residential building, office building, room number; credit card, smart card, prepaid card, debit card, Payment method selected in billing options such as activity account, hotel room bill addition; credit card number, access card number, debit card number, etc. according to billing options; credit card holder name according to billing options; billing options Expiration date of your credit or debit card; service provider The number of the issued prepaid access card; port status such as on, off or unusable; start time at which the current port status became to determine the total billing time; communication from client side to server Number of unsuccessful requests; invoice server communication status indicating whether access to the invoice server or the network management server 410 is possible; and furthermore, from the invoice server system, notification of approval or rejection of the selected invoice option is received. All data, such as maintaining whether or not it was sent, bill server approval, etc., are recorded in a database. Note that other data can be recorded in the database, and the items of the database are stored in the access port 160.
Is changed as the state of.

If no authorization is received, step 7
The processing is continued from 77. When the rejection notification is received, a rejection signal is transmitted to the client software 90 as shown in step 779. Steps 661 and 667 of FIG.
0 indicates receipt of a reject signal. If no rejection is received at step 777, the process waits for an authorization or rejection notification, as indicated by the "No" arrow.

The server software monitors the connection status while the client system 10 is communicating with the server 110. Alternatively, the server link monitoring module 114
Is monitored by Note that the connection is interrupted for any reason, such as unsuccessful client systems, accidental disconnection or interruption of cables. Also, upon finding a blocked connection, the server software 130 or billing module 112 sends the final amount at that time to the billing server as the selected payment server.

Note that the server software 130 has a “patrol” function, and upon detecting a failure in the server system, automatically reboots the system. Item 117 in FIG. 23 indicates a system fault module.

The server system 110 is a network management server 41 for starting network management software.
Communicate with 0. The network management system manages a plurality of server systems 110 at remote locations. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 26, the server system 110
It communicates with the plurality of server systems 110 via an ECN 310 (or a private network). One or more communication stations 420 communicate with network management server 410. The communication station 42
0 has already been described in this specification. Further, the network management server communicates with a bill processing server 430 such as a credit card processing company. The network management server performs a unique or dedicated connection with the processing server 430, and communication with the processing server is performed via an ECN such as the Internet. The network management server 410 also prepares a usage report 440 and sends the mail to the customer. Such reports include a list of charges and usage statistics.

Note that the network management server 410
Activate the network management software 450 to perform billing, remote network management, and usage statistics reporting. In addition, it is desirable that the network management software 450 can monitor the server 110 and the communication station 420 to calculate a usage rate, monitor an error state, and perform a failure detection remote reboot request. In this embodiment, the network management software 450
Provides the advertisement information to the server 110 and the communication station 420, and updates the advertisement information. Also,
A plurality of servers 110 are used, each server being updated according to the described method for the purpose of communicating with one network management server 410 (or a plurality of network management servers 410).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28, the client software 90 is incorporated in the operating system of the client system. Operating system 810 comprises a plurality of programs and modules configured to coordinate with the operation of client system 10 components. As shown in the illustrated example, the operating system 810 is formed from various components such as a driver 815, an operating instruction set 820, and the client software 90. Client software is UNIX, MAC OS, WINDOWS
95, and integrated with operating systems such as Windows NT. In this embodiment, the operating system provides a graphical user interface or a desktop screen that allows easy selection of icons and other selection buttons using an input device 70 such as a mouse, touchpad or touchscreen. provide.

Thus, a system and method for accessing and operating on a communication network are provided. The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described in this specification. The description given here is not intended to be limiting, but is illustrative only.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of a typical client system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a server system according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a server and an access port according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of an accommodation server and an access port according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a building server and an access port according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a server and an access port according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a portable floppy disk capable of writing an execution code according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a portable magnetic tape on which the execution code of the present invention can be written.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a portable optical disc on which the execution code of the present invention can be written.

FIG. 11 is a display screen depiction showing a display screen of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the client software according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating client software according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is another flowchart illustrating the client software according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is another flowchart illustrating the client software according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a display screen depiction showing a configuration screen of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a display screen illustration showing a bill menu screen of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a display screen description showing a connection period display of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart according to the server system of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart according to another aspect of the server system of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a display screen depiction showing a connection cutoff display of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a display screen depiction showing a bill screen of the client system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a depiction representing a module of server software according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a server system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a server system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a block diagram of a network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a chart of a database configuration according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a depiction of an operating system that includes the client software of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a series of procedures for connecting a client system and a server system.

FIG. 30 is a block diagram showing usable access ports according to the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing an example of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG. 31 showing one example of the present invention;

[Explanation of symbols]

 10 Client system 110 Server system 160 Access port

Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification symbol FI H04L 12/14 H04L 11/02 F 29/08 11/20 102D H04M 11/00 303 13/00 307Z (72) Inventor Kevin Miller United States of America, California Albatross Street, San Diego, California 2568

Claims (109)

[Claims] A method for communicating between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, wherein the client system executes client software for communicating between the client system and the telecommunications network. The server system executes server software for communicating between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, and communicates with the plurality of access ports, and sends a welcome signal from the server to the first access port. A transmitting step of transmitting, a determining step of determining whether or not the acknowledgment signal has been received at the first access port by the server; Initial connection for initial connection processing A communication method comprising: a continuation step; and a repetition step of repeating a transmission step and a determination step when it is determined in the determination step that a confirmation signal has not been received. 2. The communication method according to claim 1, wherein said transmitting step further comprises a step of transmitting a welcome signal to each access port not connected to a client system. 3. The communication method according to claim 1, wherein the repetition step includes a step of waiting for a predetermined period before repeating the transmission step and the determination step. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the determining step includes determining whether the server system has an IP address.
The communication method according to claim 1, further comprising a step of determining whether a request for an address has been received. 5. The communication method according to claim 4, wherein said initial connection step includes a step of transmitting an IP address to a client system via a first access port. 6. The communication method according to claim 1, wherein the repetition step includes a step of waiting for a predetermined period before repeating the transmission step. 7. A method for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, the server system comprising: a server for performing communication between a plurality of client systems and a telecommunications network. A step of executing the software and in electrical communication with the plurality of access ports including the first access port to start the client software in the client system; and a step of determining with the client software whether a welcome signal has been received. If it is determined in the determination step that the welcome signal has been received, the initial connection step in which the client system performs an initial connection process, and if the determination step determines that the welcome signal has not been received, the welcome signal is received. Until Communication method characterized by and a repeating step of repeating another step. 8. A cable from the user system to the first access port to establish an electrical connection between the user system and an access port that allows signals to be transmitted between the user system and the server system. The communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising the step of: 9. The communication method according to claim 7, further comprising transmitting a welcome signal from the server system to the first access port. 10. The communication method according to claim 1, wherein the initial connection processing includes a step of transmitting a connection confirmation to a server after outputting the connection confirmation to a user. 11. The communication method according to claim 10, wherein the connection confirmation transmitted to the server includes a step of transmitting a request to the server. 12. The communication method according to claim 1, further comprising transmitting a connection confirmation output to a user. 13. The communication method according to claim 12, wherein the connection confirmation is a visual signal. 14. The method according to claim 7, further comprising the step of executing the client software in the background after the starting step and before the determining step determines that the welcome signal has been received. Communication method. 15. A method comprising: executing a client software in the background after a start step; and executing a telecommunications network communication program after determining in a determining step that a welcome signal has been received. The communication method according to claim 7, wherein: 16. The communication method according to claim 7, wherein said repeating step includes a step of waiting for a predetermined time before repeating the determining step. 17. A method for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, wherein the client system executes client software to perform communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. The server system executes server software to communicate between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, communicates with the plurality of access ports, and sends a welcome signal from the server to the first access port. A transmitting step; a determining step in which the server determines whether or not the confirmation signal is received at the first access port; a determining step in which the client system determines whether or not the welcome signal is received; Contact Transmitting a confirmation signal; an initial connection step of performing an initial connection process in the server system and the client system; and, if the server determines that the confirmation signal has not been received, the server repeats the transmission of the welcome signal. A step of, when the client determines that the welcome signal is not received, repeating the determination step by the client until the welcome signal is received. 18. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a list of billing options including one or more billing methods; identifying a billing method and transmitting it from the client system to the server system; 18. The communication method according to claim 1, further comprising: transmitting a signal notifying the intention of approval / denial of the bill from the server system to the client system. 19. The communication according to claim 1, further comprising a step of performing bidirectional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system via the server system, following the initial connection processing. Method. 20. The communication according to claim 1, further comprising a step of continuing to transmit a welcome signal from the server to the first access port when the step of performing the initial connection processing is started. Method. 21. A method for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, the client system comprising: a central processing unit (CPU);
A volatile memory coupled to the telecommunications network, and executing client software for communicating between the client system and the telecommunications network; the server system includes a plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network; Executing server software to communicate between the server, transmitting a welcome signal from the server to the access port, connecting the client system to the access port, receiving the welcome signal at the client system, and connecting the client system with the telecommunications network. A communication session between the two. 22. A communication system for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunication network, wherein the client system includes client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunication network. The server system executes server software for communicating between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, and performs telecommunications with the plurality of access ports, from the server to the first access port. Means for transmitting a welcome signal, determining means for determining whether or not the confirmation signal has been received at the first access port at the server, and determination means for reporting that the confirmation signal has been received at the first access port, Confirmation means for initial connection processing in server system Communication system, comprising the issue of discrimination means that has not been received to confirm, and means for re-operation determination means and transmitting means. 23. The communication system according to claim 22, wherein said determining means includes means for determining whether the server system has received a request for an IP address. 24. A communication system for providing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, wherein the server system is for communicating between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network. Executes the server software and performs electrical communication with a plurality of access ports. In order to communicate with the server system, the client system starts the client software and determines whether a welcome signal has been received. When the determination unit determines that the welcome signal has been received, the unit that performs the initial connection process in the client system, and when the determination unit determines that the welcome signal has not been received, the determination unit re-executes the determination. Operating means; and Communication system. 25. The determining means, via an access port,
The communication system according to claim 24, further comprising: means for performing initial connection processing having means for transmitting a request for an IP address from the client system to the server system. 26. A data recording medium including means for reading a code from the data recording medium, and having a machine readable code used in a server computer system communicating with at least one or more client systems. Means for transmitting a welcome signal from the server to the first access port, determining means for determining whether or not the confirmation signal has been received at the first access port, and means for determining whether the confirmation signal has been received at the first access port. Means for performing initial connection processing in the server system when the determination means determines that the transmission means and the determination means have not received a confirmation signal, and means for re-operating the transmission means and the determination means. A data recording medium characterized by the above-mentioned. 27. A data recording medium having machine readable code for use in a client computer system having a communication interface and means for decoding a code from the storage medium, wherein the data recording medium has a client readable code for communicating with a server system. Means for starting client software in the system; determining means for determining whether a welcome signal has been received; means for performing initial connection in the client system when the determining means determines that a welcome signal has been received; And a means for re-operating the determination means when the determination means determines that no signal has been received. 28. An apparatus for performing communication on a telecommunications network, comprising: a server system having a processing device and executing server software for controlling the operation of the server system; a central processing unit (CPU); And at least one client system comprising: a plurality of access ports linked to the server system for performing telecommunications, each of the plurality of access ports being configured to be linkable to at least one client system; A server for transmitting a welcome signal from the server to the first access port; a determination unit for determining whether or not a confirmation signal has been received by the first access port; Until the first access port And means for repeatedly starting the means for signal, the telecommunication device, characterized in that. 29. A method for providing access to a telecommunications system via a server system connecting to a client system via an available access port, the method comprising providing an active welcome signal to an available access port. And C. linking the client system to an available access port and automatically providing the client system with the welcome signal. 30. The communication method according to claim 29, wherein the step of providing an active welcome signal includes the step of repeatedly transmitting a welcome signal from the server system to an available access port. 31. The method further comprises the step of linking to the client system and interrupting providing the welcome signal from the server system after the client system sends a confirmation signal confirming receipt of the welcome signal. The communication method according to claim 30, wherein: 32. A method of providing an active welcome signal, comprising the steps of: periodically transmitting a welcome signal from a server to an available access port; and linking the client system with the welcome signal after the step of linking to the client system. The communication method according to claim 29, further comprising: a receiving step of receiving. 33. The communication method according to claim 29, wherein the linking step comprises connecting a cable to an access port available from the client system. 34. An execution step of executing client software on the client system before the linking step, a receiving step of receiving a welcome signal at the client system after the linking step, and an instruction signal indicating that the welcome signal has been received. 30. The communication method according to claim 29, further comprising: transmitting a message from the client system to the server system. 35. By connecting to a client system,
An access port that provides access to a telecommunications system via a server. 36. The access port according to claim 35, further comprising: a receiving link for receiving a signal from a client system; and an emitter for outputting an active welcome signal. 37. Means for receiving a welcome signal from the server system, means for establishing a communication link with the client system, and means for transmitting a welcome signal to the client system when the communication link is established. 36. The available access port of claim 35. 38. A method for performing communication between a client system and a telecommunications network, the client system having a plurality of communication settings for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network,
A step of determining whether communication settings are properly set in the client system to execute the client software and perform communication between the client system and the telecommunications network; and setting the communication settings appropriately. When the determining step determines that the communication setting has not been performed, the saving step of saving at least the first communication setting in the memory in the client system, and when determining that the communication setting is not appropriately set,
A change step of changing at least a first communication setting in the client system. 39. The communication method according to claim 38, further comprising a reboot step of rebooting the client system following the change step when it is determined that the communication settings are not properly set. 40. The communication method according to claim 38, wherein the changing step includes a receiving step of receiving a new value of the first communication setting from an external data processing system. 41. A request step for requesting at least a first communication setting from an external server system before the changing step; and a new value of at least the first communication setting from the external server system before the changing step. The communication method according to claim 38, further comprising: a receiving step of receiving: 42. Before the determining step, the method further comprises a connecting step of connecting the client system to an access port, and the requesting step requests at least a first communication setting from an external server system via the access port. 42. The communication method according to claim 41, further comprising the step of: receiving the new value of at least the first communication setting from an external server system via the access port. . 43. After the step of saving to the memory, the method further comprises a connecting step of connecting the client system to an access port, wherein the requesting step includes transmitting at least a first communication setting to an external server system via the access port. 42. The method according to claim 41, further comprising a requesting step, wherein the receiving includes receiving a new value of at least the first communication setting from an external server system via the access port.
Communication method described in. 44. A connection step of connecting a client system to an available access port using digital signal transfer means, and at least a first communication setting to an external server system via the access port before the changing step. A requesting step of: receiving a new value of at least a first communication setting from an external server system via an access port before the changing step; and connecting the client system to an available access port. The communication method according to claim 38, further comprising: a reboot step of rebooting the client system following the change step when it is determined that the communication settings are not properly set. 45. The first communication setting is applied to an ECN connection,
The communication method according to claim 38, further comprising an ECN connection step of performing an ECN connection following the change step. 46. The first communication setting is applied to an ECN connection,
The communication method according to claim 45, further comprising an ECN connection step of performing an ECN connection subsequent to the receiving step. 47. A method for performing communication between a client system and a telecommunications network, the client system including a plurality of communication settings, and client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. Determining whether the client system is configured to receive a new value of the first communication setting; and determining whether the client system receives the new value of the first communication setting. If it is determined to be configured, a storing step of storing at least a first value of the first communication setting in a memory; and setting the at least first communication setting using a new value of the first communication setting. And a setting step of: 48. The communication method according to claim 38, wherein the storing step includes a storing step of storing the IP address and the DNS address. 49. The communication method according to claim 38, wherein the first communication setting is selected from a group including an IP address and a DNS address. 50. The method of claim 38, further comprising the step of configuring the client system to receive a new value of the first communication setting subsequent to the determining step.
Or the communication method according to 47. 51. The communication method according to claim 38, further comprising the step of inquiring whether a user of the client system intends to change the configuration of communication settings of the client system. 52. The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising a receiving step of receiving a new value of the first communication setting before the setting step. 53. A client system comprising at least a first communication setting of a predetermined value before the determining step, and following the setting step, making at least the predetermined value of the first communication setting unusable. The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising a step. 54. The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising a reboot step of rebooting the client system following the setting step. 55. The system of claim 5, further comprising an initialization step of initializing the client system with the new communication setting of the first value following the rebooting step.
5. The communication method according to 4. 56. The communication method according to claim 55, further comprising a return step of returning the first value of the first communication setting to the original value following the initialization step. 57. The communication method according to claim 56, wherein the returning step further comprises a storing step of storing a new value of the first communication setting in a memory. 58. A rebooting step following the setting step, rebooting the client system; an initialization step following the rebooting step, initializing the client system using a new value of the first communication setting; 48. The method of claim 47, further comprising following the steps: returning the first communication setting to a first value; and storing a new value of the first communication setting in a memory. Communication method. 59. A requesting step of requesting an external server system for at least a first communication setting before the setting step; and a new value of at least the first communication setting from the external server system before the setting step. The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising: a receiving step of receiving: 60. A connection step for connecting a client system to an access port before the determination step, wherein the request step includes a request for requesting at least a first communication setting to an external server system via the access port. The communication method according to claim 59, further comprising a receiving step, wherein the receiving step further comprises a receiving step of receiving at least a new value of the first communication setting from an external server system via the access port. . 61. A storage step, following the storage step, further comprising a connection step of connecting the client system to an access port, wherein the request step is a request for requesting at least a first communication setting to an external server system via the access port. The communication method according to claim 59, further comprising the step of: receiving the new value of at least the first communication setting from the external server system via the access port. . 62. A connecting step of connecting a client system to an available access port using digital signal transfer means; and, prior to the setting step, at least a first connection to an external server system via the access port. A requesting step for requesting a communication setting; a receiving step of receiving at least a new value of the first communication setting from an external server system via an access port before the setting step; The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising: a reboot step of rebooting. 63. The first communication setting is a static setting before the determining step, and the determining step of determining whether or not the client system is configured to receive the new value includes the step of determining whether the client system has the new value. A step of changing the first communication setting from static to dynamic if it is determined that the client system is not configured to receive the first communication setting, and configuring the client system to receive a new value. The communication method according to claim 47, further comprising: 64. The apparatus according to claim 38, further comprising: a connection step of connecting the client system to an available access port; and a communication step of performing communication on the Internet through the available access port. Communication method. 65. The communication method according to claim 38, wherein the storing step further comprises a step of storing the first communication setting in a nonvolatile memory. 66. The method according to claim 38, wherein the determining step includes a step of determining whether a setting selected from a group of a network configuration setting and a control setting is appropriately set. 47. The communication method according to 47. 67. A discriminating step includes a step of discriminating whether or not the setting is selected from a group of settings such as an IP address, a gateway address, a DNS address, a network setting, a file sharing setting, and a browsing control setting. The communication method according to claim 38 or 47, wherein: 68. A communication system for performing communication between a client system and a telecommunications network,
The client system has a plurality of communication settings, executes client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network, and performs communication settings for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. Determining means for determining whether or not the communication setting has been properly set in the client system;
Storing means for storing the communication setting in the memory; and determining means for determining that the communication setting is not appropriately set, the client system determines at least the first
And a changing unit for changing the communication setting. 69. A communication system for performing communication between a client system and a telecommunications network,
The client system has a plurality of communication settings, executes client software for communicating between the client system and the telecommunications network, and is configured such that the client system receives a new value of the first communication setting. Means for determining whether or not the first communication setting has been received, and if the client system is configured to receive a new value of the first communication setting, at least the first value is stored in the memory.
A communication system comprising: storage means for storing a first value of the communication setting; and setting means for setting at least the first communication setting by using a new value of the first communication setting. 70. A data storage medium comprising machine readable code for use in a computer system including means for decrypting the code from the storage medium, wherein the data storage medium comprises: Determining means for determining whether or not communication settings are appropriately set in the client system;
Means for storing the communication setting in the memory, and when the determining means determines that the communication setting is not properly set, at least the first
Means for changing the communication setting of the data storage medium. 71. A data storage medium storing machine readable code for use in a computer system including means for decrypting the code from the data storage medium, wherein the client system receives a new value of the first communication setting. Determining means for determining whether or not the configuration is established; and when the client system is configured to receive a new value of the first communication setting, at least the first value of the first communication setting is stored in the memory. And a means for setting at least a first communication setting using a new value of the first communication setting. 72. A method for communicating between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, the client system comprising a central processing unit (CPU)
A volatile work memory associated with the CPU, a communication interface, and execute client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. Providing server software for communicating with a communication network, providing a set of bill options including at least one payment method; identifying the bill method, from the client system to the server system; Sending and invoice approval from the server system to the client system
Transmitting a denial / rejection signal; and performing bidirectional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system via the server system when an authorization signal is provided in the invoice authorization / denial signal transmission step. A communication method, comprising: 73. The communication method according to claim 72, further comprising an assigning step of assigning an IP address to the client system before the step of providing the list of billing options. 74. A determining step for determining whether client software of a client system lacks a component required for communication with a telecommunications network, and providing the missing component to the client system from the client software of the client system. Before providing a set of billing options, providing a providing step, and an installation step in which the client software of the client system installs the missing components.
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 75. A determining step for determining whether client software of a client system lacks a component necessary for communication with a telecommunications network, and searching for an installation file of the client system including the missing component. Before the step of providing a set of billing options, the step of installing a missing component of the client software detected in the step of searching.
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 76. A determining step for determining whether client software of a client system lacks a component necessary for communication with a telecommunications network, and searching for an installation file of the client system including the missing component. Providing a client system with other missing components not detected in the search step from the server system; and installing the missing component of the client software detected in the search step. Before the steps to provide,
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 77. A judging step of judging whether or not the client software of the client system has an old component; and providing the current version of each of the old components detected in the judging step from the server system to the client system. Prior to the step of providing a set of billing options, the step of installing a current version of each of the old components detected in the determining step.
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 78. A judging step of judging whether or not the client system has an appropriate network configuration and registration setting capable of performing communication processing with a telecommunications network; and If it is determined that the IP address has been stored, a storing step of storing the settings in a volatile memory, a requesting step of requesting the server system to allocate an IP address by the client system, and receiving the IP address from the server system in the client system Before the receiving step to provide a set of billing options,
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 79. A transmitting step of transmitting a request for a set of billing options that can be provided from the client system to the server system after the step of receiving the IP address and before the step of providing the set of billing options. The communication method according to claim 78, comprising: 80. A judging step of judging whether or not the client system has an appropriate network configuration capable of performing communication with a telecommunications network and a registration setting; and determining that the setting is appropriate in the judging step. If determined, a saving step of saving the setting in a volatile memory, a step of requesting an assignment of an IP address from the client system to the server system, and a receiving step of receiving the IP address from the server system in the client system. Before the step of providing a set of billing options,
The communication method according to claim 72, comprising: 81. When a plurality of client systems communicate with a server system, maintaining identification information of each of the client systems communicating with the server system in a database format in the server system; and billing information of each client system. 73. The communication method according to claim 72, further comprising: recording, in the database, data representing a charge amount accumulated in each of the client systems. 82. The communication method according to claim 81, wherein the data representing the amount of money charged includes data representing a connection time. 83. Following the disconnection processing of the client system, a step of recording data representing a total billing amount of the corresponding client system; a transmitting step of transmitting the total billing amount to the network management system; The communication method according to claim 81, further comprising: performing billing processing according to the billed amount. 84. A transmitting step of periodically transmitting a periodic connection signal for confirming that the client system is being connected from the client system to the server system, a providing step of providing a clock signal to the server system, A discriminating step of discriminating in the server system whether or not the periodic connection signal has been received from the client system within a predetermined time period based on the clock signal; 73. The communication method according to claim 72, further comprising: setting a shutdown parameter in the server system when it is determined that the shutdown parameter has not been received from the client system. 85. A method for communicating between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, the client system comprising a central processing unit (CPU)
And a volatile work memory connected to the CPU; and a communication interface, and executes client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. Providing server software for communicating with a communication network, providing a list of billing options including at least one payment method; identifying a billing method and transmitting it from the client system to the server system. Sending, a request for authorization from the server system to the remote authorization system, and a temporary authorization signal from the server system to the client system before the authorization signal is received from the remote authorization system to the server system. Sending a Communication method characterized by comprising the steps of: performing bidirectional communication between the communication network and a client system. 86. In a server system, a receiving step of receiving a denial signal from a remote authorization system, a transmitting step of transmitting a denial signal from the server system to a client system, and a bidirectional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system. The communication method according to claim 85, further comprising: interrupting communication. 87. The communication of claim 85, further comprising: transmitting a denial signal from the server system to the client system; and transmitting additional billing information from the client system to the server system. Method. 88. A communication system for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications system, wherein the client system includes client software for performing communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. Executing, the server system executing server software for communicating between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, providing means for providing a list of billing options including at least one payment method; Means for identifying and transmitting it from the client system to the server system, and billing authorization from the server system to the client system
Means for transmitting a denial signal, and means for performing bidirectional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system via the server system when the authorization signal is received by the client system. Communications system. 89. The apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising means for assigning an IP address to the client system.
9. The communication system according to 8. 90. A means for determining whether client software of a client system lacks a component necessary for communication with a telecommunications network, and resolving the missing component of client software of the client system from the server system to the client system. 89. The communication system of claim 88, further comprising: means for providing a component; and means for installing missing components in the client software of the client system. 91. A means for determining whether client software of a client system lacks a component necessary for communication with a telecommunications network; a means for searching for an installation file of a client system including the missing component; 89. The communication system of claim 88, comprising: means for installing missing components of the client software. 92. A means for determining whether client software of a client system lacks components required for communication with a telecommunications network; means for searching for an installation file of a client system comprising said missing components; and a server. 89. The method of claim 88, further comprising: means for providing additional missing components from the system to the client system; and means for installing missing components of client software provided to the client system by the providing means. Communications system. 93. A means for determining whether or not client software of a client system includes an old component; a means for providing the client system with the latest version corresponding to the old component from the server system; 89. The communication system of claim 88, further comprising: means for installing the latest version. 94. A means for determining whether a client system has an appropriate network configuration and registration settings for communicating with a telecommunications network, and means for storing the settings in a volatile work memory. The communication according to claim 88, further comprising: means for requesting the server system to assign an IP address to the server system; and means for receiving the IP address from the server system at the client system. system. 95. The communication system of claim 94, further comprising: means for transmitting a request for a set of billing options that can be provided from the client system to the server system. 96. A means for determining whether a client system has an appropriate network configuration and registration settings for communicating with a telecommunications network, and means for storing said settings in a volatile work memory. 90. The communication according to claim 90, further comprising: means for requesting assignment of an IP address to the server system from the client system; and means for receiving the IP address from the server system to the client system. Method. 97. When a plurality of client systems communicate with a server system, means for maintaining, in a database format, identification information of each of the client systems communicating with the server system in a database format; 89. The communication of claim 88, further comprising: means for storing, in the database, the billing information and data representing the total billed amount accumulated by each client system as that of each client system. Method. 98. The communication system according to claim 97, wherein said data representing the total charge includes data representing connection time. 99. In accordance with the shutting down of the client system,
Means for storing data representing the total charge of each client system; means for transmitting the total charge to the network management system; and means for performing a billing process according to the total charge in the network management system. The communication system according to claim 97, wherein: 100 means for periodically transmitting a periodic connection signal for confirming that the client system is being connected from the client system to the server system; means for providing a clock signal to the server system; Means for determining in the server system whether or not the periodic connection signal has been received from the client system during a predetermined period; and wherein the determining means does not receive the periodic connection signal from the client system during a predetermined period. 89. The communication system according to claim 88, further comprising: means for setting a shutdown parameter in the server system when determining. 101. A machine readable code for use in a client computer system including a central processing unit (CPU), volatile memory coupled to the CPU, a communication interface, and means for reading the code from a storage medium. Means for receiving a list of billing options including at least one payment method; means for identifying a billing method and transmitting it to the server system from the client system; Means for receiving from the server system at the client system, and means for performing bidirectional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system via the server system when the authorization signal is received, the data comprising: Storage medium. 102. A data recording medium having machine readable code for use in a server computer system configured to read and decode a code from a data storage medium and to communicate with a plurality of client systems. Means for providing a list of billing options comprising at least one payment method; means for receiving a billing method specification from one client system; and transmitting a billing authorization / denial signal from the server system to one client system. Means for enabling two-way communication between the telecommunications network and any client system via the server system when the authorization signal is received by the client system. Data storage medium. 103. A computer operating system having a communication function for performing communication between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, wherein the client system communicates between the client system and the telecommunications network. Executing the client software to perform communication between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, and providing a list of billing options including at least one payment method; A means for receiving from the server system, a means for specifying a billing method and transmitting it from the client system to the server system, a means for receiving a billing authorization / denial signal from the server system to the client system, Computer operating system, characterized in that it comprises when the authorization signal is received from the server system, and means for performing bidirectional communication between the telecommunication network and the client system via the server system, the in. 104. A method for communicating between a client system, a server system, and a telecommunications network, wherein the client system comprises a client for communicating between the client system and the telecommunications network. Executing software, the server system executing server software for performing communication between the plurality of client systems and the telecommunications network, and providing network setting parameters from the server system to the client system. Identifying, transmitting the request from the client system to the server system, transmitting a request approval / denial signal from the server system to the client system, and transmitting a request approval / denial signal. That the communication method characterized by comprising the steps of: performing a two-way communication between the telecommunication network and the client system via the server system. 105. A method for storing network configuration parameters of a client system prior to providing network configuration parameters, and providing bi-directional communication between the telecommunications network and the client system. The communication method according to claim 104, further comprising: restoring network settings. 106. An apparatus for performing communication over a telecommunications network, comprising: a processing system; a server system for executing server software for the purpose of controlling the operation of the server system; a central processing unit (CPU); And at least one client system having: a plurality of access ports formed from respective access ports configured to link for communication between the telecommunications and the server system and to link to the telecommunications and the client systems; Means for providing each certificate to the client system linked to a particular access port; means for receiving each certificate from the client system and thereby identifying the particular client system; Related to A communication device comprising: server software comprising: 107. The communication device of claim 106, wherein the server software further comprises means for facilitating communication between the client system and the telecommunications network. 108. The communication device according to claim 106, further comprising a network management server in communication with the server system. 109. The system according to claim 106, further comprising a plurality of said server systems capable of transmitting and receiving data from a network management server.
The communication device according to claim 1.