Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Techniques are described for constructing and maintaining secure communities over a computer network, such as the Internet. In particular, the techniques allow security to be integrated and managed in a 'directory-centric' fashion. In other words, the techniques described herein allow a community of trusted members to easily be managed via one or more online directories rather than hierarchical certification authorities. A system includes, for example, a server having a directory of members of a network community, wherein the directory stores data defining digital identities of the members for securely exchanging information with the members. A software application executing on a network device coupled to the server accesses the directory and exchanges the information between the members in accordance with the digital identities of the members.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim