Patent ID: 6553422
Filing Date: 2003-04-22
Classification: G06F,H04L

Abstract:
A method for enabling a remote processor to control a device coupled to a local processor, said remote processor coupled to said local processor across a computer network, and a proxy machine operatively interposed between said local processor and said computer network to route, messages from said local processor to said computer network and, only when authorized, to route messages from said computer network to said local processor, said local processor performing a method that enables said remote processor to control operation of said device, not withstanding a presence of said proxy machine, said method comprising the steps of:(a) sending a message to said remote processor and authorizing said proxy machine to route a message from said remote processor to said local processor; (b) receiving said message from said remote processor, routed by said proxy machine, indicating a command to be executed by said local processor; (c) executing said command; and before step (a), the step of receiving a message from an electronic mail processor, directing said local processor to initiate communication with said remote processor.