Importance

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Abstract

A method, implemented as a computer program in a digital computer system, for interrupting, modifying and/or controlling the boot process of a computer, automatically (without manual intervention) across a computer network. When a network manager needs to install software, test, maintain or gather information concerning one or more of the computer systems on the network, this invention permits the network manager to take control of the networked computer during its boot process, and in so doing to reconfigure both the networked computer's hardware and software, and to do so remotely. When fully implemented an entire network may be automatically controlled and tested remotely, all networked computers simultaneously or in sequence. An important improvement over methods of modifying the boot process which require manual intervention on individual computers or which require the use of expensive special purpose hardware devices which must be installed within each networked computer. In the best mode of operation, the method of this invention is performed on standard digital computer hardware through the use of special computer programs.

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First Claim