Web Server Module Installation via Intermediary Mediator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Web server administrators face difficulties in efficiently locating and installing additional modules or applications to enhance functionality, especially when they lack direct installation rights on host computer systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows clients to request and receive information about programmatic code units from a data store, enabling selection and automatic installation on a web server, facilitated by user interaction and profile-based recommendations, with options for direct or intermediary installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If web server administrators manually locate and download modules or applications, then they can install additional functionality on the web server, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hosting company systems administrator as an intermediary who has installation rights on the host computer system. This intermediary receives module requests from web server administrators, downloads the modules, and installs them on the web server, thereby resolving the time-consuming manual installation process while maintaining security through access control rules
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the installation process into distinct roles: web server administrators who identify and request needed modules, and hosting company systems administrators who execute the actual installation. This segmentation allows each role to focus on their expertise while streamlining the overall process
2Ease of operation
If web server administrators directly install modules on host computer systems, then installation is simplified, but security and access control are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hosting company systems administrator serves as a trusted intermediary who mediates between web server administrators and the host computer system. This intermediary maintains security by controlling access through established authentication credentials while still enabling efficient module installation
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service for web server administrators to request and select modules based on their needs, while the actual installation is automatically performed by the hosting company systems administrator through automated download and installation processes
3Productivity
If web site administrators know which modules are needed and where to find them, then installation can proceed efficiently, but the complexity of finding and selecting appropriate modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the hosting company systems administrator receives information about which modules are already installed on the web server and can provide feedback about available modules, compatibility, and installation status. This feedback loop simplifies the module selection process by providing administrators with relevant information without requiring them to manually search for it
Data Source
AI summary
Facilitating installation of additional functionality on a web server. The method includes at a data store, receiving a request from a client to access programmatic code units. The data store includes programmatic code units. The programmatic code units are configured to provide additional web server functionality when installed at a web server. The client is distinct and separate from the data store. The method further includes, at the data store, providing information about one or more programmatic code units to the client. Input is received from the client selecting one or more programmatic code units to be installed on a web server. The web server is separate and distinct from both the data store and the client. The one or more selected programmatic code units are sent to the web server, where after the one or more selected programmatic code units are installed on the web server.