Port proxy and system for server and client computers

Abstract

A method and system for serving software applications to remote clients across the internet, for example, is disclosed that preferably utilizes standard, SMB (server message block), protocols, which are available in commercial operating systems. Further, an associated business method is described in which subscribing institutions can out-source the application serving to a third party institution, transparently. Finally, a port proxy system is provided that enables tunneling through firewalls that are configured to block communications from SMB ports.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 531,121, filed on Mar. 17, 2000, which is a continuation-in-part and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 456,181, filed on Dec. 7, 1999, which claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 128,828, filed on Apr. 12, 1999, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Internet or network delivery of application-program-style functionality has become increasingly important. The ubiquitous client-server platform typically requires that the application program code be loaded and installed on the client computers. This requirement, however, is viewed as substantially increasing the installation and maintenance costs associated with computer networks. Moreover, many client operating system platforms are deemed unstable. Network deliver...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a method for enabling remote networking functionality by port redirection. This allows software players to automatically connect with remote storage assets across a network, even if security policies and institution firewalls block these protocols. The method involves intercepting communications from a process and redirecting them over an open port. The invention can also be characterized as a system for remote networking by port proxy, which intercepts and redirects communications from an application program. The invention has various advantages, including overcoming even the most sophisticated firewall systems.

Problems solved by technology

The problem is, however, that security policies and institution firewalls may a priori block this remote access with these existing networking protocols.

Thus, in many environments, they can not be used.

Images