JP2003114872A - Sign up method, sign up system, recording medium, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow people having less knowledge about computers to rather easily gain an access to the Internet by easily changing set information stored in a device. SOLUTION: A CD-ROM 112 having a program for online sign-up recorded therein is installed in a computer 111 purchased by a customer at the store of a shop 11, and the program stored in the CD-ROM 112 is run. The program allows the computer 111 to display the contents of contract with ISP 15, perform an online sign-up processing for ISP 15 when an input to agree with the contents of the contract is performed, and set a browser and a mailer by re-writing the set file of the computer 111 based on the information acquired by the sign-up processing so that services provided by ISP 15 can be enjoyed. The contents of the set is also stored in FD 113 so as to be used later for re-setting.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a sign-up system capable of appropriately performing a setup including a contract with an Internet service provider at the time of purchasing a computer and easily performing subsequent maintenance.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art It is rather difficult for an individual unfamiliar with a computer to purchase a computer, connect the computer to the Internet, browse a home page, and send and receive electronic mail (e-mail). Is. After all, you buy a computer, but it's almost never turned on. In addition, even if the Internet can be used initially, when the hard disk is formatted / replaced, the program version is upgraded, etc., the user cannot make the settings by himself, and the Internet cannot be used thereafter. is there.

[0003]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to make it possible for a person having little computer knowledge to access the Internet relatively easily. .

[0004]

In order to achieve the above object, the sign-up method according to the first aspect of the present invention is
By causing a computer to execute a predetermined online sign-up program,
Online sign-up for the service providing system operated by the Internet service provider to display the contract contents with the Internet service provider and to respond to the input operation of agreeing to the displayed contract contents. By executing the processing and rewriting the setting file for accessing the service providing system of the computer based on the information acquired by the online sign-up processing, the service provided by the Internet service provider can be enjoyed. It is characterized by: With the above configuration, if you agree to the contract content,
The computer signs up online and rewrites the configuration file. Therefore, even a user who does not have specialized knowledge can access the Internet relatively easily.

The step of executing the online sign-up process is, for example, in order to prompt input of predetermined items for concluding a contract with the Internet service provider in response to an input operation of agreeing to the displayed contract content. Is displayed, the online sign-up process is executed using the input predetermined items, and the information provided by the Internet service provider is acquired in the online sign-up process. According to this configuration, the sign-up process is executed by using the items such as the address, name, and payment information entered according to the screen display, and the information such as the email address, email account, and password provided by the service provider. Can be obtained.

[0006] The step of rewriting the setting file may include, for example, a step of rewriting the settings of the browser and the mailer stored in advance in the computer. With this configuration, it is possible to perform online sign-up, refer to a home page on the Internet, and send and receive e-mail with a simple process.

The step of rewriting the setting file may include, for example, a step of performing dial-up and automatic setting of a mail account. With this configuration, it is possible to perform online sign-up, dial-up to the Internet service provider, and transmission / reception of e-mail by a simple process.

Connection information including information provided by the Internet service provider may be stored in a non-volatile recording medium such as a flexible disk for resetting the computer. If the settings on the computer are destroyed for some reason, etc., the recording medium is used to perform the resetting, whereby the resetting can be easily performed and the Internet can be reused.

At a store or the like where a computer is sold, the above-described sign-up method may be executed on the computer purchased by the customer, and the computer already set may be handed over to the customer. By doing this, you can immediately use the Internet with the computer you brought back.

Further, in the sign-up method according to the second aspect of the present invention, the setting program and the setting information for accessing the Internet service provider are recorded in a recording medium and distributed, and after the distribution of the recording medium. , Accessing the Internet service provider, executing a sign-up process, and executing the setting program recorded on the recording medium on the computer, whereby the setting program is stored in the computer. A setting process for setting a program for accessing an Internet service provider based on the setting information is performed, and a service provided by the Internet service provider can be enjoyed.

For example, the distribution and the sign-up are performed in the store of the computer dealer, and the setting process is executed in the home of the purchaser of the computer. According to this configuration, the recording medium is distributed to customers without causing the purchaser to wait too long, the person in charge of the store signs up while the purchaser returns home, and the purchaser starts the setting program at home. Then, it becomes possible to easily set the computer (access program). Therefore, the purchaser can easily set the computer and use the Internet without waiting for a long time.

[0012] For example, the setting information includes user identification information prepared in advance by an Internet service provider,
Including information specific to the user (for example, a mail account desired by the user) described in documents (application, contract, etc.) exchanged between the Internet service provider and the user, The sign-up process is
The setting process is executed based on the contents of the document, and the setting program updates the contents of a setting folder for setting the operating conditions of the program for accessing the Internet service provider based on the setting information. It includes processing to do.

The setting program is, for example, a program for setting at least one of a dial-up connection program, a browser, and a mailer.

A sign-up system according to a third aspect of the present invention is a computer installed in a computer store for recording setting information for accessing an Internet service provider on a recording medium recording a setting program. A terminal installed in a computer store, which, after distributing the recording medium, accesses the Internet service provider to perform a sign-up process, and the setting program recorded on the recording medium detachable from the computer By executing the setting program, the setting program sets a program for accessing the Internet service provider in the computer on the basis of the setting information, so that the service provided by the Internet service provider can be enjoyed. A recording medium, and a city.

A computer-readable recording medium according to a fourth aspect of the present invention causes a computer to display contract contents with an Internet service provider that provides Internet-related services, and agree to the displayed contract contents. In response to the input operation to that effect, the service providing system operated by the Internet service provider is prompted to enter predetermined items for executing the online sign-up process, and In response to an input operation of an instruction to start an online sign-up process, an online sign-up process is executed for the service providing system, and the service providing system of the computer is based on the information acquired by the online sign-up process. Access to It rewrites the order of configuration file, program for causing a function are recorded.

A program for causing the computer to perform a function of recording the contents of the online sign-up in a non-volatile recording medium may be further recorded.

The program according to the fifth aspect of the present invention causes a computer to display the contract content with an Internet service provider that provides services related to the Internet, and to perform an input operation for agreeing to the displayed contract content. In response, the Internet service provider prompts the service providing system operated to provide the service to input the predetermined items for executing the online signup process, and inputs the predetermined items and starts the online signup process. For executing an online sign-up process for the service providing system in response to the input operation of the instruction, and accessing the service providing system of the computer based on the information acquired by the online sign-up process. Configuration file It can replace, to perform the function.

The program is stored in the computer,
The function of recording the content of the online sign-up in the nonvolatile recording medium may be further performed.

[0019]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
A description will be given with reference to the drawings.

(First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an Internet access system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, this system includes a computer store 11 and a public network 13.
And Internet Service Provider (ISP) 15
And the Internet 17.

The store 11 is a store that sells computers, and a service counter for setting the computer purchased by the customer is provided on one screen of the store. A telephone line is pulled out to this service counter.

A CD (compact disc) -ROM in which a program for executing the processing shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is recorded in advance in the service counter of the store 11.
A large number of (read only memories) 112 are prepared.
As will be described later, the programs include a new application program for membership registration to the ISP 15, a registration information acquisition program for existing members of the ISP 15, a setting restoration program, and the like. A large number of portable recording media such as flexible disks (FD) are prepared in the service counter.

The public line network 13 is a telephone line network or ISDN.
Including line network and wireless telephone line network. Further, a CATV network or the like may be used.

As shown in FIG. 2, the ISP 15 has a terminal server 151, an authentication server 152, and a billing server 15.
3, new registration server 154, member database 155,
And so on. The terminal server 151 receives dial-up from the user and connects to the Internet 17. The authentication server 152 determines whether the dialed-up user is a registered regular user. The billing server 153 performs billing processing for connection to the Internet 17. The new registration server 154 performs a new registration process. The member database 155 records information about registered users.

The dealer 11 and the ISP 15 are provided with a contract or the like in advance, unless the customer claims that the dial-up connection destination of the computer sold by the dealer 11 is disagreement.
A contract to SP15 has been made.

Next, the operation of this system will be described. The clerk of the store 11 confirms with the customer who purchased the computer whether or not he / she wants the online sign-up service, and provides the following service to the customer who wants it.

First, the computer (computer to be set) 111 purchased by the customer is installed in the service counter, and the modular jack connection terminal of the computer 111 is connected to the modular jack of the telephone line prepared by the store 11. To do.

Next, the computer 111 is started, and the CD-ROM 112 is set in the CD-ROM driver, and the FD 113 is set in the FD driver. Then, an executable program stored in the CD-ROM 112, for example, signup.exe is started. The start-up of this program starts the sign-up process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

First, the computer 111 uses the CD-RO.
The program stored in M112 is executed, and the membership agreement as illustrated in FIG. 5 is displayed on the screen (step S11). This membership agreement includes information such as online sign-up at the shop 11, that the contractor for online sign-up is ISP15, the content of the contract (service, fee), and the like.

When the customer reads the displayed membership agreement and is not satisfied with the contents, the operator clicks the "Cancel" button. By this click, this sign-up process ends without performing any special process.

On the other hand, when the customer reads the displayed membership agreement and is satisfied with the contents, the operator clicks the "Next" button. By this click,
A screen containing the process selection items for selecting one of the "new application", "acquisition of registration information", and "restoration of settings" and modem selection items for selecting a modem shown in Is displayed.

The operator selects any one of the process selection items with a radio button (step S12). In this example,
It is assumed that "new application" is instructed.

Next, the operator uses the computer 111
The modem connected to is selected (step S13). For example, the computer 111 has an internal modem,
If you want to use the internal modem, select the internal modem. When selecting an externally connected modem, the model or type of the modem is selected.

When the selection of the processing selection items and the selection of the modem are completed and the "Next" button is clicked, the items necessary for the contract with the ISP as shown in FIG. 7, for example, name, sex, contact information, etc. Display the screen for registering. Input the necessary information according to this display (step S14),
Furthermore, when the "Next" button is clicked, a screen for inputting usage information and payment information as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

With respect to the usage information, a usage course, a payment method, a nickname used on the Internet, an electronic mail name, an account name, an access point mainly used, etc. are set (step S14).

Further, as the payment information, information such as the payment method (credit card, transfer, debit card), card name necessary for payment, card number (account number), etc. is set (step S14). Note that FIG. 8 shows an example in which payment by a credit card is designated in advance as a payment method.

When the input is completed and the "Next" button is clicked, a confirmation screen as shown in FIG. 9 for displaying a list of the input contents up to that point is displayed (step S1).
5).

The customer confirms the contents, and based on the judgment, the operator (the customer or the clerk) clicks the "return" button to make a correction and re-inputs. On the other hand, if the displayed content is correct, click the "Connect" button.

In response to the click of the "Connect" button, the computer 111 drives the modem to make a dial-up connection to a predetermined access point for new registration of the ISP 15 (step S16). Computer 111 and I
A session is established with the new registration server 154 of SP15, and new registration processing is executed.

First, the computer 111 provides registration information (contents confirmed by the customer on the confirmation screen of FIG. 9) to the new registration server 154. The new registration server 154 performs credit card credit check and various settings based on the registration information provided from the computer 111. The setting process itself is the same as the setting process performed by an ordinary Internet service provider.

When the new registration processing cannot be performed, for example, when the credit settlement is rejected by the credit company, the mail address and account name are duplicated with the mail addresses and account names of other members. If it is determined that the error has occurred, an error notification for notifying the occurrence of the error and its cause is sent to the computer 111, and the session is temporarily disconnected. Computer 11
1 redisplays the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9 according to the notification,
A code is added to the error location to request re-entry / correction.
The subsequent processing is the same as the above processing.

On the other hand, when the new registration processing in the new registration server 154 is completed, the new registration server 154 registers the registration information (confirmed mail address, POP3 server account, POP3 server access password, PPP connection account, PPP connection). Password, etc.) to the computer 111 to disconnect the session.

According to the notice, the computer 111 displays the registration information (connection information) confirmation screen shown in FIG. 10 (step S17). The customer and / or the clerk confirm the displayed contents, and there is no error in the basic information, the usage information, and the payment information, and the notified email address and account name,
If the password is valid, click the "Save" button.

In response to the click of the "Save" button, a dialog box for designating a save destination folder is displayed on the screen (step S18). In the dialog box, candidates for folders for saving the registration information are displayed.

Here, assuming that the save destination is correct, "save"
When the button is clicked, the computer 111 stores the registration information in the designated folder, for example, the FD 113 (step S19). In addition, browser, mailer,
The setting file of the dial-up program is forcibly rewritten, and user information, dial-up and mail account, POP3 server settings, etc. are automatically performed (step S20). That is, dial-up, mail account, etc. are automatically set.

This completes the online sign-up process. In this state, the computer 111 is handed over to the customer. The customer possesses the computer 111 and returns home, or asks the courier to deliver it to a predetermined address. At this time, the customer uses the CD-ROM 112 and the FD1.
It also receives 13 and holds it with other accessories.

The computer 111 purchased by the customer has completed the contract with the ISP 15 at this stage,
Necessary information of this customer is registered in the member DB 155 of
Furthermore, the Internet-related setup of the computer 111 itself has also been completed. Therefore, just by connecting a telephone jack to the modular jack terminal of the computer 111 and activating a browser or mailer, dialup connection is made to the ISP 15, authentication is performed, a session is established, and services are provided via the Internet 17. be able to. That is, the Internet can be used by the above simple setting procedure.

FD1 created when the customer purchased the computer 111 while using the computer 111
13 may be lost. In this case, the customer can recreate the FD 113 by the following procedure.
First, the CD-R that you used when you signed up online
The OM 112 is set in the computer 111 and the internal executable program signup.exe is started. The user selects “acquire registration information” on the screen of FIG. 6 through the process of step S11 of FIG. 3 (step S12), selects a modem (step S13), and clicks the “next” button. .

In response to this click operation, a screen for inputting the connection account and password as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed. The user inputs necessary items (step S21) and further clicks the "connect" button. In response to this click, the computer 111
A dial-up connection is made to the ISP 15 to request an information acquisition process (step S22).

After performing a predetermined authentication process according to the request, the ISP 15 acquires the registration information from the member DB 155, notifies the computer 111, and finally disconnects the session.

Computer 111 Receiving Registration Information
Executes the operations of steps S17 to S20 described above.

By such processing, even if the FD 113 storing the connection information acquired at the time of computer purchase is lost, such information can be reproduced.

Further, the set information may be lost due to the replacement of the hard disk, the version up of the browser or the mailer, and the setting information may need to be restored. In such a case, the setting information is restored using the registration information stored in the FD 113 in the process of step S19 of FIG.

The restoring operation will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, C of the computer 111
The CD-ROM 112 storing the sign-up program is set in the D-ROM drive, and the FD 113 is set in the FD drive. Next, the CD-ROM 11
2 Start the internal executable program signup.exe.
By this start-up operation, as described above, the terms of use shown in FIG. 5 are displayed (step S11), the selection screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed by clicking the “Next” button, and the “restore settings” is displayed by the radio button. Is selected (step S3
1) Further, a modem is selected (step S32),
Click the "Next" button.

In response to this click, the folder in which the registration information is stored is searched, and a dialog box is displayed to the effect that dial-up and mail accounts are automatically set based on the registration information stored in the searched folder. It is displayed (step S33). Confirm this display and click the "Cancel" button to return to the original screen.

On the other hand, after confirming the contents of the dialog box and clicking the "OK" button, the registration information is read (step S34), and the dial-up and mail account setting files are automatically set based on the read registration information. (Step S35). As a result, the browser and mailer can be used again.

As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, dial-up and mail account settings are almost automatically performed at a store or the like. Therefore,
As soon as the customer receives the computer, he can connect to the Internet and use it. Further, when the setting contents are destroyed, the FD created at the time of setting can be used to easily perform the resetting. In addition, if you forget the registration information, enter the connection information in I
It can be appropriately acquired from the SP and stored in the storage medium.

The first embodiment is not limited to the one described above. For example, in the above-described first embodiment, the sign-up process is described to be performed at the store 11 of the store 11, but it is naturally possible for the user to perform it at home or the like. Further, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the operation procedure shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the screens shown in FIGS. 5 to 11 are merely examples, and can be appropriately modified and changed.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a sign-up method according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
First, an outline of this sign-up method will be described. Customers who purchased a computer at a store can use the ISP (Internet Service Provider) at the service counter of the store.
Fill in the address, name, payment method, etc. on the registration application form.

In the service counter, a program (setup program) for automatically setting a computer to connect to the Internet is recorded.
A plurality of Ds (flexible disks) are prepared. The clerk can refer to the completed registration application form and use one FD
Then, the setting information unique to this user is recorded to complete the FD. The store clerk gives the created FD to the purchaser. The purchaser brings the purchased computer and the passed FD back home.

By the time the purchaser returns home, the clerk
Access the SP and perform user registration on behalf of the user based on the information entered in the application form. The buyer returns home, connects the computer to the public telephone line, and
Set and start the setup program. Then, this setup program, based on the setting information registered in the FD, dial-up program,
Set up a program such as a browser or mailer so that it can connect to the Internet.

After that, when the user activates the browser or mailer, a dial-up connection to the ISP, an authentication process, etc. are automatically performed to establish a session with the ISP.
Access to the Internet is possible. According to this system, even if the user does not have much computer knowledge, he / she can easily access the Internet. In addition, the customer does not have to wait for a long time at the store to register the user with the ISP, and the service to the customer is improved.

Next, the sign-up method will be described in detail. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a sign-up system for executing this sign-up method has substantially the same configuration as the Internet access system of the first embodiment shown in FIG. Good. However,
As shown in FIG. 12, the computer 11 purchased by the customer
1 is a service counter of the store 11, which is a public line network 13
Instead of being connected to the computer, the computer purchaser's home 19 is connected to the public line network 13 as described later, and the process described below is executed.

On the other hand, at the service counter of the store 11, online sign-up is performed for the ISP 15,
It is assumed that a setting computer 115 for creating the FD 113 for setup is arranged. In addition,
In this embodiment, it is assumed that a large number of FDs 113 are prepared in the service counter in a state where a program for automatically setting a browser and a mailer is recorded in advance.

In this embodiment, the FD 113 has a pair of user ID and password prepared in advance for the ISP 15, the ISP 15 as shown in FIG.
Name server address (Primary DNS (Domain N
ame Server) address, secondary DNS address),
The mail server name is recorded in advance.

In this embodiment, the ISP 15
The registration information recorded in the member database of
It has the data structure shown in FIG. The ID and password included in the registration information shown in FIG. 14 have values determined in advance by the ISP 15. Other information is information set at the time of membership. The ID / password pair is selected and set in advance, and one of the ID / password pair selected in advance is given to the new member. The ID and password pair registered in the FD113 is the member database 1
A pair of ID and password registered in 55,
Members are not assigned.

Next, the operation of this sign-up system will be described. The salesclerk of the store 11 confirms with the customer who purchased the computer whether or not he / she wants the sign-up service, and provides the following services to the customer who wants it.

First, the customer records the name, address, telephone number, payment information (credit card number), etc. on the subscription application form of ISP 15. On the other hand, the clerk, in consultation with the customer, is the type of telephone line used by the customer on the Internet 17, the type of modem used, the communication speed, the usage course (billing mode), and the access point used mainly (dial-up destination). Enter information such as. Also, the customer
Fill in the application form with the desired email account, for example, up to about the third candidate.

The person in charge operates the setting computer 115 to connect to the ISP 15 and inquires whether or not the filled-in mail account is usable. ISP15
In response to the inquiry, it is determined from the contents of the member DB 155 whether or not the same mail account has been registered. If registered, it is notified that the mail account cannot be used, and if not registered, Notify that you can use the mail account. When the person in charge receives the notification that the mail account cannot be used, the person in charge makes the same inquiry about the next candidate. Repeat these steps to confirm your email account.

After the above processing is completed, the person in charge sets one FD 113 in the setting computer 115 and, out of the information written on the application form, the data necessary for setting the dial-up program, the browser and the mailer. Is additionally registered in the FD 113. As the data to be registered, for example, as shown in FIG. 13B, the pulse and tone of the line connected to the Internet 17, the type of modem, the telephone number of the connection destination (access point), and the mail account.

When the recording on the FD 113 is completed, the person in charge hands over the FD 113 to the customer, and the customer releases the FD 113.
Are taken home with the purchased computer 111.

While the customer is taking the computer 111 home, the person in charge operates the setting computer 115 to connect to the ISP 15, and obtains the customer name, customer address, usage course, mail address, and payment. Register information such as methods and fee courses. The ISP 15 registers these pieces of information in the member DB 155.

When the customer brings the computer 111 back to his / her home 19, he / she connects it to the telephone line of his / her home, sets the FD 113 on the computer, and double-ups the setup program recorded in the FD 113, eg, "setup.exe". click. Then, this program starts the processing shown in FIG.

First, the setup program is shown in FIG.
Based on the registration information shown in (b), the dial-up program can be used to distinguish between line pulse and tone, modem type,
The telephone number, ID and password, and name server address (primary DNS address, secondary DNS address ...) Of the connection destination (access point) are set (step S51). That is, the predetermined data of the predetermined file in the setting folder in which each data is set is rewritten to the data to be set.

Subsequently, the home page to be displayed first (home page of ISP 15) is set for the browser (step S52).

Further, regarding the mailer, information such as a mail server name and a mail account is set (step S53).

With the above processing, setup is completed and connection to the Internet 17 is possible.

Thereafter, the user on the computer 111
When the browser or mailer is activated, the dial-up program is activated and the ISP 15 is called. ISP15
Inquires the computer 111 for the ID and password. The browser notifies the inquiry of the set ID and password. This allows
The ISP 15 authenticates this user, and the Internet 1
Allows connection to 7.

While the user is connected to the Internet 17, the billing server 153 of the ISP 15 performs the billing process, determines the fee according to the fee course registered in the member DB 155, and performs the settlement process according to the settlement method.

As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the person in charge of the store or the like registers with the ISP. Therefore, the customer can use the Internet 17 without performing a complicated registration procedure with the ISP. Moreover, the setup program stored in the FD 113 almost automatically sets up dial-up and mail accounts. Therefore, the customer can immediately use the computer by connecting to the Internet 17 when he or she brings the computer home or the like without performing a complicated setting procedure. Moreover, it is not necessary to wait for a long time at the service counter of the store for setting the computer.

If the setting contents are destroyed by initializing the computer or the like, the FD used at the time of setting can be used to easily perform the resetting.

In the second embodiment, it is possible that the person in charge of the store may be delayed from registering with the ISP or may not be registered for some reason. In this case, since the ID and password are already registered in the member DB 155, the user may be able to use the Internet 17 without being charged. In order to prevent such a situation, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the member DB 155 is provided with a registered flag indicating whether or not the user information is already registered, and when the user information is set, the registered flag is set. Set the registered flag, check this registered flag when the user dials up,
If it is not set, it cannot be used because it is not registered.
The computer 111 may be notified of such a message.

Further, as shown in FIG. 17, the actual admission date may be registered and the access may be permitted only when the admission date is set.

Alternatively, for some reason, if the ID and password are used while the user information is not registered,
It is also possible to prepare for billing in advance (record the communication history) and to charge the past amount together after registration.

The second embodiment is not limited to the one described above. For example, in the second embodiment, the ID and the password are numbered and recorded in advance in the FD 113. However, for example, when an application is made by the customer, the ID and the ISP 15 are communicated with each other. The password may be numbered. Further, although the sign-up process is described as being performed at the store 11, the place where the sign-up process is executed is arbitrary. Furthermore, FIG.
The configuration shown in FIG. 13, the table configuration shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 16 and 17, the operation procedure shown in FIG. 15 and the like are merely examples, and can be appropriately modified and changed.

Although the FD 113 is exemplified as the recording medium for setting the computer 111, the recording medium may be of any type as long as it is writable and readable by the computer. For example, it may be an MO (magneto-optical disk), a CD-RW, a semiconductor memory, or the like.

(Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described by taking an environment setting system for setting an operating environment of a program for connecting a computer to a network as an example. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of this environment setting system. As shown in the figure, this environment setting system includes an environment writing machine 301 and a recording medium 30.
2 and a network connection terminal 303.

The environment writing machine 301 is installed, for example, in a store (convenience store or the like).
The network connection terminal 303 is installed, for example, at the front of an Internet cafe and is connected to the telephone line T. The telephone line T is also connected to an external gateway server (access point) AP owned by a provider that provides a network connection service, and the access point AP is connected to an external network N composed of the Internet or the like. There is.

The environment writing machine 301 includes a processing unit 311.
A storage unit 312, an input unit 313, and a display unit 314.
And a recording medium drive unit 315.
The storage unit 312, the input unit 313, the display unit 314, and the recording medium drive unit 315 are connected to the processing unit 311.

The processing unit 311 is a CPU (central processing unit).
Etc. The processing unit 311 includes a storage unit 312.
The processing described later is executed according to the control of the program described later that is stored by.

The storage unit 312 is a hard disk drive or R
It is composed of AM (Random Access Memory) etc.,
A program that controls various processes described below executed by the processing unit 311 and a database described below are stored. Then, in response to the access of the processing unit 311, the program and the data included in these databases are supplied to the processing unit 311.

The database stored in the storage unit 312 is
The provider information used to receive the network connection service provided by the provider is stored for each provider. Specifically, the provider information about each provider is, for example, in addition to the name of the provider, data shown as (a) to (c) below, that is,
(A) Telephone number of the access point AP owned by the provider indicated by the name, (b) Criteria for calculating the connection fee when connecting to the network N using the access point AP indicated by the data in (a) (rate course ), And (c) data indicating the transmission speed (connection speed) of data between the access point AP and the network connection terminal 303 indicated by the data in (a).

Further, this database stores an environment investigation program, an environment setting program and an environment restoration program which are programs to be executed by the network connection terminal 303. The environment research program, the environment setting program, and the environment recovery program control the processing described below that is executed by the network connection terminal 303.

The input unit 313 is composed of a touch panel or the like, and outputs information according to the user's operation to the processing unit 311.
Supply to. The display unit 314 is a CRT (Cathode Ray Tu
be) or a liquid crystal display, etc.,
The image according to the instruction of the processing unit 311 is displayed on its own display screen. When the recording medium 302 is set in the recording medium drive unit 315, the recording medium drive unit 315 records the data having the content instructed by the processing unit 311 on the recording medium 302.

The recording medium 302 is the recording medium drive unit 3
It suffices that the recording medium 15 is capable of writing data and that the recording medium driver of the network connection terminal 303, which will be described later, can read the data from the recording medium. For example, it may be a flexible disk or an MO. Good.

The network connection terminal 303 is composed of a personal computer or the like, and stores a program for controlling the processing of a WWW (World Wide Web) browser, which will be described later, and the processing of mail transmission and reception, and setting information, which will be described later. Remember.

The network connection terminal 303 includes an input device including a keyboard and a mouse, and a CR.
The display device includes a display device such as a T or a liquid crystal display, a recording medium driver that reads out data recorded in a recording medium, and a communication control device that includes a modem or a terminal adapter. The network connection terminal 303 has an identification code (for example, IP
(Internet Protocol) address is assigned.

The setting information is, for example, the following (A) to (G).
(A) the telephone number of the access point AP to which the network connection terminal 303 connects, (B) the password for logging in to the access point AP indicated by the data, and (C) the network connection. E-mail address of user of terminal 303, (D) Address of mail sending server used by the user for sending e-mail, (E) Address of mail receiving server used by the user for receiving e-mail,
(F) The password used to log in to the mail receiving server indicated by the address of (E), and (G) the telephone line T connected to the network connection terminal 303.
Data indicating whether the line is a tone line or a pulse line.

The network connection terminal 303 executes the processing of the WWW browser as described above. That is, when the network connection terminal 303 inputs the URL according to the operation of the user, the network connection terminal 303 accesses a device such as an external server via its own communication control device and the network N,
It supplies its own identification code to the device as an indication of the supplier of this URL, and requests transmission of the data at the logical position indicated by this URL. Then, according to this request, the data transmitted by the device is received, and an image representing the received data is displayed on the display screen of its own display device.

Further, the network connection terminal 303 executes the process of sending and receiving mail as described above. That is,
After the user operates the input device of the network connection terminal 303 to instruct the execution of the process of sending and receiving mail, the network connection terminal 303 represents the mail address of the destination, the title and contents of the electronic mail according to the operation of the user. When you enter the data, it will have the destination, title and content entered,
An e-mail whose origin is the e-mail address stored in the setting information is created, and the e-mail is sent to the mail transmission server indicated by the setting information stored in the self via the communication control device and the network N of the self. To do. Also,
After the user instructs the execution of the process of sending and receiving the mail and further operates the input device to instruct the reception of the mail, the mail receiving server indicated by the setting information stored by the user via the own communication control device and the network N. To read the electronic mail addressed to the user's mail address indicated by this setting information. Then, the title, contents, and sender of the read e-mail are displayed on the display screen of its own display device.

When the communication control device of the network connection terminal 303 executes the WWW browser process or the mail transmission / reception process, the communication control device of the network connection terminal 303 makes a call to the access point AP having the telephone number indicated by the above setting information, so that the network N is connected. Connecting.

Next, the operation of this environment setting system will be described.

(Third Embodiment: Operation of Writing Data to Recording Medium) When the recording medium 302 is used to set the environment of the network connection terminal 303, the user of the network connection terminal 303 writes the environment. The recording medium 302 is set in the recording medium drive unit 315 of the machine 301, and the input unit 313 is operated to instruct writing of data to the recording medium 302. Then, in response to this instruction, the processing unit 311 accesses the database stored in the storage unit 312 and reads the provider information stored in the database. Then, the content of the read provider information (that is, the above-mentioned data of (a) to (c))
The display unit 314 is instructed to display a list for each provider. According to this instruction, the display unit 314 displays a list of the contents of the provider information for each provider on its own display screen.

While the environment writing machine 301 is displaying a list of the contents of the provider information, the user inputs the input section 31.
3 is operated to input the data for selecting the telephone number of the access point AP, the processing unit 311 reads the telephone number selected by the user from the database, and the recording medium 3
The data is temporarily stored in the storage unit 312 as the above-mentioned (A) data constituting the setting information to be recorded in 02.

Next, the processing section 311 instructs the display section 314 to display the above-mentioned image prompting the data input of (B) to (F). Then, when the user operates the input unit 313 to input the data of (B) to (F) while the environment writing machine 301 is displaying the image, the processing unit 311 receives the input. These five data are stored in the storage unit 31
Temporarily store in 2.

Next, the processing section 311 reads out the environment investigation program, the environment setting program, and the environment recovery program from the database, reads out these three read out programs, and supplies them to the recording medium drive section 315. This program is recorded in the recording medium 302. That is, the processing unit 311 instructs the recording medium drive unit 315 to record these three programs supplied by itself in the recording medium 302, and the recording medium drive unit 315 follows these instructions to write these three programs. Is recorded on the recording medium 302. Further, the processing unit 311
The data of (A) to (F) temporarily stored in the storage unit 312 is read and supplied to the recording medium drive unit 315, and the data of (A) to (F) is recorded in the recording medium 302.

As a result of the processing described above, the recording medium 302
Is a state in which the data of (A) to (F) input or selected by the user of the network connection terminal 303, the environmental research program, the environmental setting program, and the environmental restoration program are recorded.

(Third Embodiment: Operation of Changing Settings of Network Connection Terminal) When the user wants to use the network connection terminal 303, the user of the network connection terminal 303 uses the recording medium driver of the network connection terminal 303 to record the recording medium 302. Set and instruct to execute the environment setting program. Then, the network connection terminal 303
Accesses the recording medium 302 to read and execute the environment setting program stored in the recording medium 302.

When the network connection terminal 303 starts executing the environment setting program, first, the setting information stored in itself is duplicated for saving (that is, a copy of the setting information is created) and temporarily stored. Then, call the environmental survey program. That is, the recording medium 302 is accessed to read and execute the environment research program stored in the recording medium 302.

When the network connection terminal 303 starts the execution of the environment inspection program, it determines whether the telephone line T connected to itself is a tone line or a pulse line by a known method. Then, the data of (G) included in the setting information stored by itself is changed so as to match the result of the determination, and the processing of the environmental research program is ended.

The network connection terminal 303 returns to the processing of the environment setting program when the processing of the environment investigation program is completed. Then, the network connection terminal 303
The recording medium 302 is accessed to read the data (A) to (F) stored in the recording medium 302, and the data (A) to (F) included in the setting information stored by itself is read as
The data is updated so as to match the data (A) to (F) read from the recording medium 302.

As a result of the above-described processing, the network connection terminal 303 becomes ready to connect to the access point AP selected by the user who owns the recording medium 302 to which the environment writing machine 301 has written data, In addition, it becomes possible to receive an email addressed to the user and to send an email originating from the user.

(Third Embodiment: Operation for Restoring Settings of Network Connection Terminal) When the use of the network connection terminal 303 is terminated, the user of the network connection terminal 303 uses the recording medium driver of the network connection terminal 303. The recording medium 302 is set in and the execution of the environment recovery program is instructed. Then, the network connection terminal 3
03 accesses the recording medium 302,
Read and execute the environment recovery program stored in.

When the network connection terminal 303 starts the execution of the environment restoration program, it reads a copy of the setting information that is temporarily stored by itself for saving, and uses the read setting information as the contents of the read copy. Change the settings so that they match and end the processing of the environment recovery program. As a result, the content of the setting information of the network connection terminal 303 is restored to the content before executing the environment setting program.

The configuration of this environment setting system is not limited to that described above. For example, the content of the setting information is not limited to the above data (A) to (G), and may include, for example, the IP address of the network connection terminal 303 and the IP address of the DNS server.

Further, the environment writing machine 301 creates the environment investigation program, the environment setting program or the environment recovery program each time the environment investigation program, the environment setting program or the environment recovery program is recorded in the recording medium 302. Good. Also, the environment writing machine 30
In No. 1, it is not always necessary to record the environmental research program and the environmental restoration program in the recording medium 302.

Further, the environment writing machine 301 stores the data to be recorded in the recording medium 302 in the storage device provided in the server connected to the network N or another communication line instead of recording the data in the recording medium 302. It may be stored in the area. In this case, the environment writing machine 301 uses the DSU (Data Service Uni) for accessing the storage area.
t) etc. should be provided. Then, according to the control of the environment setting program, the network connection terminal 303 accesses the storage area via its own communication control device, reads the data stored in the storage area by the environment writing machine 301, and reads it. Data to the recording medium 3
It may be treated as the data read from 02.

When the user selects the telephone number of the access point AP, the environment writing machine 301 requests the provider holding the access point AP to conclude a new contract via a communication line or the like. May be. In this case, when the user further operates the input unit 313 to input data (personal information) that identifies the user, such as the name and address of the user, the environment writing machine 301 can The information may be notified to the provider via a communication line or the like.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the configuration according to the present invention can be realized by using a normal computer system instead of a dedicated system. For example, a medium (CD-RO) in which a program for executing the above-described operation of the setting computer 115 is stored in a personal computer equipped with a recording medium driver.
By installing these programs from M, FD, MO, magnetic tape, etc.), the sign-up system according to the above-described second embodiment can be configured. Further, for example, by installing these programs in a personal computer provided with a recording medium driver from a medium in which the program for executing the operation of the environment writing machine 301 is stored, the above-described third embodiment You can configure your environment setting system.

Further, for example, these programs may be posted on the BBS of the communication line and distributed via the communication line. Alternatively, the carrier wave is modulated by the signals representing these programs, and the obtained modulation is obtained. A device that transmits a wave and receives the modulated wave may demodulate the modulated wave to restore the program. Then, the above-described processing can be executed by activating these programs and executing them under the control of the OS in the same manner as other application programs.

When the OS shares a part of the processing,
Alternatively, when the OS constitutes a part of one component of the present invention, the recording medium may store the program excluding the part. Also in this case, in the present invention, it is assumed that the recording medium stores a program for executing each function or step executed by the computer.

[0122]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Even users with little knowledge of computers and communications,
You can use the Internet relatively easily by making initial settings easily. Further, after that, the resetting can be easily performed.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an internet access system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an Internet service provider.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an operation at online sign-up and an operation for confirming registration information.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for resetting a browser and a mailer.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of a sign-up system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of setting information recorded in an FD.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of information recorded in the member database shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for setting a dial-up program, a browser, and a mailer.

16 is a diagram for explaining a modification of the information recorded in the member database shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining another modification of the information recorded in the member database shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an environment setting system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

11 stores 13 public network 15 Internet Service Provider 17 Internet 19 Computer buyer's home 111 Target computer 112 CD-ROM 113 FD 115 setting computer 301 Environment writing machine 311 processing unit 312 storage unit 313 Input section 314 display 315 recording medium drive unit 302 recording medium 303 Network connection terminal N network T telephone line AP access point

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A computer executes a predetermined program for online sign-up to display the contract contents with an Internet service provider on the computer and respond to an input operation for agreeing to the displayed contract contents. And performing an online sign-up process on a service providing system operated by the Internet service provider to provide a service, and based on the information acquired by the online sign-up process, the service providing system of the computer. A sign-up method, characterized in that a service provided by the Internet service provider can be enjoyed by rewriting a setting file for accessing. 2. The step of executing the online sign-up process, in order to prompt input of predetermined items for concluding a contract with the Internet service provider, in response to an input operation of agreeing to the displayed contract content. The screen is displayed, the online sign-up process is executed using the input predetermined item, and the information provided by the Internet service provider is acquired in the online sign-up process. The sign-up method described in 1. 3. The sign-up method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of rewriting settings of a browser and a mailer stored in advance in a computer. 4. The sign-up method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of dial-up and automatic setting of a mail account. 5. The connection information including the information provided by the Internet service provider is stored in a non-volatile recording medium for resetting the computer, according to claim 1 or 2. How to sign up. 6. A computer purchased by a customer at a store or the like of a store that sells the computer, according to claim 1.
6. A sign-up method, characterized in that the sign-up method according to any one of items 1 to 5 is executed, and a set computer is handed over to a customer. 7. A setting program and setting information for accessing an Internet service provider are recorded in a recording medium and distributed, and after the recording medium is distributed, the Internet service provider is accessed to perform sign-up processing. And executing the setting program recorded on the recording medium on the computer, the setting program stores a program for accessing the Internet service provider in the computer in the setting information. A sign-up method, characterized by performing setting processing based on which the service provided by the Internet service provider can be enjoyed. 8. The setting information includes user identification information prepared in advance by an internet service provider, and user-specific information described in a document exchanged between the internet service provider and the user, The sign-up process is executed based on the contents of the document, and the setting process sets the contents of a setting folder in which the setting program sets operating conditions of the program for accessing the Internet service provider. The sign-up method according to claim 7, further comprising a process of updating based on information. 9. The sign-up method according to claim 7, wherein the setting program is a program for setting at least one of a dial-up connection program, a browser, and a mailer. 10. A computer installed in a computer store for recording setting information for accessing an Internet service provider on a recording medium storing a setting program, and a computer installed in the computer store for distributing the recording medium. After that, by accessing the Internet service provider and executing the setting program recorded in the terminal that executes the sign-up process and the recording medium removable from the computer, the setting program is stored in the computer. And a recording medium that enables a service provided by the Internet service provider to be enjoyed by setting a program for accessing the Internet service provider based on the setting information. . 11. An Internet service provider provides a service in response to an input operation for displaying an agreement with an Internet service provider that provides Internet-related services on a computer and accepting the displayed agreement. The service providing system operated in order to prompt the user to input predetermined items for executing the online signup process, and in response to the input operation of the predetermined items and the instruction to start the online signup process, the service An online sign-up process is performed on the providing system, and a program for performing a function that rewrites a setting file of the computer for accessing the service providing system based on the information acquired by the online sign-up process. There recorded computer-readable recording medium. 12. The recording medium according to claim 11, further comprising a program for causing the computer to perform a function of recording the contents of online sign-up in a nonvolatile recording medium. 13. A computer displays the contents of a contract with an Internet service provider that provides services related to the Internet, and the Internet service provider provides the service in response to an input operation for agreeing to the displayed contents of the contract. The service providing system operated in order to prompt the user to input predetermined items for executing the online signup process, and in response to the input operation of the predetermined items and the instruction to start the online signup process, the service An online sign-up process is performed on the providing system, and a program for performing a function that rewrites a setting file of the computer for accessing the service providing system based on the information acquired by the online sign-up process. . 14. The program according to claim 13, which further causes the computer to perform a function of recording the contents of online sign-up in a nonvolatile recording medium.