Importance

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Abstract

The present invention involves a desktop administration system and method which allows a network administrator to remotely create, protect, and manage desktops and control file systems across a network. The method involves masking operation of the network providers while obtaining a user security information record relating to the user's allowed scope of access to the network providers. Next, the operation of the user is enabled only with the network providers authorized based on the user security information record. Finally, the user's interaction with each network provider is monitored and the user is only allowed to act consistent with the user security information record. Each workstation includes a personal desktop facility (PDF) and a Daemon which protects the user's desktop. The PDF receives desktop information from the network server and builds a desktop which the user manipulates to invoke local and/or network programs and access local and/or network utilities, providing appropriate keys or other authentication information to access restricted network resources. The Daemon serves as an interface for the PDF by channeling any communication to or from the user or the network, preventing unauthorized transactions at either the workstation or network level. The PDF provides a graphic user interface using objects that encapsulate programs with data, such as user preferences, default directories, and access privileges. The Daemon performs many tasks, including starting the PDF, enumerating the windows of the graphic user interface, and recording operations.

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First Claim