Patent ID: 7561286

Claim:
A printing system having a host apparatus and a printer connected to the host apparatus, wherein the host apparatus comprises: an inputting section through which a user inputs first identification information and a command having either a first function or a second function; an authentication section that performs an authentication operation based on the first identification information inputted by the user to generate authentication information indicative of whether the user is an authorized person; a first transmitting and receiving section through which the host apparatus communicates with the printer; a utility function processing section that runs on the host apparatus and allows activation of the first function of the printer via said first transmitting and receiving section; and a controller; wherein the printer comprises; a second transmitting and receiving section through which the printer communicates with the host apparatus, said second transmitting and receiving section enabling communication between the printer and the host apparatus; an administration section that is activated by said controller and runs on the printer, said administration section allowing activation of the second function of the printer via said second transmitting and receiving section; and an identification information decision section that determines based on the authentication information whether the command is allowed to be activated.