초록 ▼

This invention includes a method for more efficiently installing a subset of software components and data files contained in a component pool in a distributed processing network such as the Internet. An installation package delivered to a requesting end user is custom configured at a remote server l

This invention includes a method for more efficiently installing a subset of software components and data files contained in a component pool in a distributed processing network such as the Internet. An installation package delivered to a requesting end user is custom configured at a remote server location prior to delivery to a client system operated by the user, in response to the user's inputs. The delivered installation package contains only the programs, data, and local installation tools required for the user's unique installation requirements. The user initiates the installation process by connecting to the remote server system via a telecommunications link within a distributed processing network, such as the Internet. Engaging in a dialog with the server which provides informational links to server-side databases, the user chooses all software components and options that he desires his software package to have. Such a package may be, for example, a subset of a software suite. After selection of all options, a single package is manufactured on the server. A single download then occurs of a single file. This is no bigger or smaller than what is absolutely required by the components and options selected. Upon receipt of the downloaded file, the user executes the file to unpack the installation directory. An auto-start feature can also be included which immediately launches the installation of the selected applications and options.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A process for installing, on a local client data processing system, a subset of a pool of software components and data files available on a server data processing system at a remote location in a distributed processing network, said process comprising the steps of:conne

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A process for installing, on a local client data processing system, a subset of a pool of software components and data files available on a server data processing system at a remote location in a distributed processing network, said process comprising the steps of:connecting to the remote server system via a telecommunications link;selecting specific components from said pool;accessing the component pool and producing a custom set of files at the server location, which include only those required to implement the selected components on the client system;subjecting said custom set to a packaging process which produces a custom installation package which includes a client installer program;transmitting the custom installation package to the client system.