Patent ID: 6950946
Filing Date: 2005-09-27
Classification: G06F,G08B

Abstract:
1. A method for discovering a network-attachable computer system which comprises a network interface for connection to a network, a server module address, a secure identifier, and a coded key, whereby a server module is reachable through said network at said server module address, said server module being co-located at a portal at a non-dedicated network component and having access to a list with secure identifiers and corresponding decryption keys of lost or stolen computer systems, the method comprising the steps of: generating identity information comprising said secure identifier and being protected using said coded key; and automatically sending said identity information via said network interface to a server module co-located at a portal which is reachable via said network by using said server module address as part of an IP destination address; comparing at said server module said secure identifier with said list to determine whether said secure identifier is on said list, and, if said secure identifier is on said list, verifying whether said identity information was sent by said computer system by using said corresponding decryption key, and triggering an action if said secure identifier is on said list and if said verification reveals that said identity information was sent by said computer system.