Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for performing autonomous data transfer are disclosed. In one preferred embodiment, a mail server notifies a mobile computing device that the server has received new email. Acting in accordance with instructions or an instruction contained within the notification, the mobile computing device connects to the server and downloads the email. The data connection is preferably a wireless connection and the notification is preferably in the form of a SMS message send in accordance with the GSM short messaging service. In an alternative embodiment, the data to be transfer corresponds to a software update or database update. In this embodiment, the mobile computing device downloads the software update and can autonomously execute an install script or the data in the form of a self-extracting archive. In a similar fashion, a remote database can be updated. The remote computing device may be mobile and in the form of a laptop computer incorporating a specially adapted GSM cellular communications module. The invention provides for complete automation of the data transfer process as the specially adapted GSM module can be kept in a passive mode and, on receipt of a notification of pending new email, power up the laptop computer in which it is resident. The invention may find application in the field of mobile computing and remote network administration.

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First Claim