JP3167521B2 - Software distribution and maintenance system and method utilizing network - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention enables a software provider to provide, update, and maintain software to a large number of users via a network, and to obtain a large number of software from each software provider. And a software distribution / maintenance system and method using a network that can always use the latest version.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a conventional technique for distributing / obtaining software update information, the following is conventionally known. (A) Method of Providing Software by Portable Media The most usual method is to provide the software in a portable medium such as a magnetic tape or a magnetic floppy disk and provide the software.

In this case, correction of a bug, addition of a function, provision of a new version (hereinafter, referred to as updated software information), and the like also need to be individually provided to the user using the same medium. To install the software on the user's computer, the provider goes to the user or the user himself or herself. (B) Method in which a provider sends software via a network In response to a request from a user (or at the initiative of a provider), a provider sends software and updated software information to the user via the network. These pieces of information are temporarily stored as data. In order to use it on the user computer, the user needs to perform (re) installation according to the instruction information from the provider. (C) Method for a user to input software via a network A library of software is placed on a computer file of a provider (or an alternative institution thereof), and the user accesses the library via the network to obtain a necessary one. Similarly, the updated software information is obtained by the user. It is the responsibility of the user to make the software available on the user computer. The acquisition tools do not control the update of the software to be acquired.

[0004] Incidentally, the above-mentioned methods are described in (a) and (b).
As shown in (1), the software is individually distributed by the provider, or as shown in (c), the software is obtained by the user. The decision of which version of the software (modules, etc.) to send / obtain, and the installation and reinstallation of the software are all performed manually, and this manual operation involves many inconveniences and problems. Has occurred.

[0005] Further, from the provider's point of view, even one piece of provided software is obtained by a large number of users at various times and managed separately, so that they can be used properly. Assurance and service face many problems. Therefore,
As a system for automatically updating and maintaining software via a network, the following system was previously proposed.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the above-mentioned system. In FIG. 11, reference numerals 101-1 and 101-2 denote computers of a user A and a user B, respectively. Is provided with a client program 101a for automatically updating software on the user computer and transmitting fault information. Also, software 101b and software 101b 'are placed on the computers of the user A and the user B, and these are managed by the client program 101a.

Reference numeral 102 denotes a provider computer. The provider computer 102 includes a server program 102a for automatically updating software on a user computer and a software library 102b managed by the server program 102a. It has been placed. Reference numeral 103 denotes a network, and the client program 101
a and the server program 102a exchange information via the network.

In FIG. 1, when a user A attempts to start software 101b on a user computer 101-1, the client program 101a detects this and collects information on the current version via a network 103 to provide a provider. Server program 102 on computer 102
Contact a. In the example of FIG.
-1 software 101b is composed of module groups Ma,.
.., Mm. This information is transmitted to the server program 102a via the network 103 to make an inquiry.

[0009] When the above information is received, the server program 102a of the provider executes the software library 10
2b, the software 101b of the user A
Instruction information for updating the software and the updated software are returned. In the example shown in the figure, the module Mi is updated to Mi *, and instruction information for adding the module Mn, the updated module Mi *, and the new module Mn are returned.

The client program 10 of the user A
1a automatically updates the software 101b to the latest version using the above information,
Is updated to the latest version like software 101b 'of the computer of user B. Thereafter, the client program 101a activates the latest version of the software as instructed by the user A.

Also, when a user newly obtains software, the software itself can be obtained only by obtaining and installing the client program 101a whose software is to be updated and managed. That is, when the client program is started as if the software already exists on the user's computer, the client program makes an inquiry to the provider's computer as described above, and You can get the latest software from.

[0012]

As a general situation,
Computer software has become diverse, large-scale, complex, and sophisticated, and the number of users using it has increased rapidly (thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands ...), and diversification, Decentralized. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of each user,
Uses a variety of software.

Under these circumstances, providing, obtaining, managing, updating, and improving the computer software used by the user incurs a heavy burden on both the provider and the user. I have. Although the system shown in FIG. 11 has been proposed from the above viewpoint, the above-mentioned system has the following limitations and problems.

That is, the basic settings of the system shown in FIG. 11 are as follows. The provider's calculator, and
The provider has one server program on each computer, and the server program manages one target software library. Furthermore, there is one updated version (latest version) of the target software library. Although there are many users and user computers, each user has one client program on the computer, and each client program has one target software. Further, there is one updated version (latest version) of each target software. There is no limit to the network.

As a result, the following limitations and problems have arisen. <Issue 1> There is a great deal of diversity among many users. For example, differences in computers used, differences in software environments on computers used, differences in general proficiency with computers, differences in proficiency with one target software and usage purposes, differences in user computer usage modes (multi-user Sharing, personal use, etc.).

[0016] For these diversity, the client
There is a lack of diversity in processing by the program,
The adaptation to the diversity of these users is not fully considered on the software provider side. <Issue 2> Diversity among many softwares has many influences on distribution and management.

For example, “commercial software”, “public shared software” and “in-house software”, “hardware embedded”, “basic software (OS)”, “application software”, and “operating system”
And "online software" and "batch run software"
There are various kinds of software such as "load module provision", "object module provision", and "source provision" which are different in distribution form, usage, type, provision form, etc., and how to handle these diversity Is not clear and cannot respond sufficiently. <Issue 3> Even when one user handles one target software, there are some stepwise differences.

For example, “a stage where the right to obtain is not yet available”
And "acquisition right stage", "initial installation incomplete stage" and "completed stage""beginner use stage", "stable user stage" and "advanced user stage"
There are differences between the “conventional version use stage”, “new version acquisition trial stage”, “new version switching use stage”, “conventional environment stable use stage”, “new environment shift trial stage”, and “new environment use stage”.

Regarding these gradual differences, the operation to obtain the appropriate software service is
Each user wants, but not considered enough. <Problem 4> One user uses a large number of target software, and the software providers are different from each other. In the system shown in FIG. 11, management is performed by an individual management system centered on each provider, but a more uniform and convenient system is required for the user.

That is, there is a need for a software provision form and technology that can be used in unified manner by a large number of various software, a large number of various software providers, and a large number of various users. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-described problems of the related art, and a first object of the present invention is to target a large number of various software, and An object of the present invention is to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network, which can be used by many and various users in a unified manner.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network that allows a user to quickly and appropriately obtain and use software created and updated by a software provider. That is. A third object of the present invention is to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network, which allows users of computers connected to a network to quickly and appropriately obtain software of other users. It is to provide.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a software summary inquiry, a new acquisition request, an update inquiry, a new service acquisition request,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method using a network that allows a user to make a request / inquiry to a software provider in various forms. A fifth object of the present invention is to distribute various software such as product software, shareware, freeware, academic prototype software, and software used in an organization, and to distribute software using a network capable of maintaining the software. Providing maintenance systems and methods;

A sixth object of the present invention is to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network that enables even an unskilled user to obtain new software or updated software in a readily usable form. It is to provide. A seventh object of the present invention is to provide a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network that enables a software provider to immediately recognize that a software failure has occurred and to quickly deal with the software failure. That is.

An eighth object of the present invention is to utilize a network which can share a program for managing target software of each user of a user computer and a program for managing each software library of a provider computer. It is to provide a software distribution and maintenance system and method. A ninth object of the present invention is to utilize a network which can set a processing method of a message exchanged between a user computer and a provider computer by a procedure and can respond to various requests of a user and a provider. Software distribution and maintenance system and method.

[0025] A tenth object of the present invention is to confirm a provider,
By providing a software distribution / maintenance system and method utilizing a network that can set a processing method for determining user qualification by a procedure and can cope with various software distribution modes between users or providers. is there.

[0026]

FIG. 1 is a principle diagram of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a user computer, and a plurality of users U1, U2,.
), And target software groups SU1, SU2,... (Generally written as SUj) to be managed by the present invention used by each user, and user management data UD1, corresponding to each user. UD2,... (Generally written as UDj), and first processing means CP.

The first processing means CP transmits various messages from the user to the provider, such as a software acquisition request, an update inquiry, and a failure report, receives a reply from the provider, and receives a reply from the user's software. Perform processing such as updating. Also, the user management data UD1, UD2,... Include user identification information, software management / configuration information, and information (procedure) that defines a processing method such as installation.
It is used when transmitting various messages such as an update inquiry and a failure report, and when performing processing such as updating of a user's software.

Reference numeral 3 denotes a provider computer.
Includes software libraries SL1 and SL2 (generally written as SLi) of the provider V1 (generally written as Vk) and provider management data VD1 and VD2 (generally expressed as SLI) corresponding to each software library. (Write as VDi)
And the second processing means SP. The second processing means SP returns necessary information and software in response to various inquiries and requests from the users U1, U2,.

The provider management data VD1 and VD2 include data such as provider identification information, software configuration information, and customer management information, and information (such as a procedure) that defines a method of processing a reply. Used. Reference numeral 4 denotes a user / provider computer, and the user / provider computer 4
Includes a user U3 and a provider V2 (which may be the same person).
User management data UD3, first processing means CP, provider software library SLn, provider management data VDn, and second processing means SP are provided.

Reference numeral 2 denotes a communication network which connects the computers 1, 3, and 4 and transmits messages exchanged between the computers. In the description of the present invention, the following terms and symbols will be used for the configuration and version of the target software. Each target software is represented by Si, for example, indicating that S1 and S2 have different names. This one target software Si often has several version types due to model dependence and differences in functional specifications. V, Si. V ', Si. V "or the like. The version type of the software is specified by a symbol such as" V ". A version number is assigned to each version type in order to manage the update order. (The above-mentioned version type and version number are collectively referred to simply as a version.) A provider (Vk) providing the target software Si The target software library SLi for Si that is managed includes software information (Si.V.1, Si.V.) of all version versions of all the above-mentioned version types Si.V, Si.V ',.
2,. . Si. V '. 1,. . ) Is remembered. Each target software Si usually has many modules M1, M
2,. . (Generally written as Mm), these modules are also provided with version numbers each time they are updated, and a specific version of a specific module is designated as Mm. Notated as n. In general, a version Si. V. l is the number of such specific version modules (eg, M1.2, M2.1, M3.
5 ,. . ), And one specific version module is often shared by different software versions.

On the other hand, from the user's point of view, when the target software Si is used, one of the most suitable version type S
i. V is selected, and the Si. V. It is common to wish to use l. Further, it is common for a single user to use a large number of software (eg, S1, S2, S3,...). Accordingly, the target software group SUj used by a certain user Uj is a specific version (for example, S1.V.1, S2.
V '. 3, S3. V ".1,...).

As described above, the provider manages a large number of versions of one software to be provided and provides the same to many users. Yes, but they use a lot of software (from different providers) at the same time. Thus, the relationship between the provision and use of software is
The present invention presupposes that there are many providers × many users × many software.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, as shown in FIG. 1, the invention of claim 1 of the present invention is based on a large number of users U1 using various kinds of target software to be distributed, managed and maintained. , U2,... And a number of software providers V1, V2,... Providing the target software, use a network for managing the distribution of the target software via the computer network 2. In the maintenance system, (a) the target software groups SU1, SU2,... Placed on each user computer 1 and used by the users U1, U2,. A first processing means CP and (b) a software library group SL1, SL which is placed on the computer 3 of each software provider and is provided for the provider. , ... and the software library group SL1, SL2, the second to perform services related to ...
, And (c) a network 2 connecting each user computer 1 and each provider computer 3, and (d) each first processing means CP is provided with an instruction of a user U1, U2,. In response to the instruction of the setting program, for one piece of target software, a message of distribution and / or maintenance request of the target software is transmitted to the second processing means SP of the target software via the network 2, and (E) receiving a reply message from the second processing means SP, and performing processing for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software according to the contents of the reply and the settings of the users U1, U2,. User computer 1
Arbitrary target software managed by the above first processing means CP
An error is detected when the software terminates abnormally during execution
To analyze the situation that caused the abnormality, and
Second processing of the providers V1, V2,...
Means for automatically transmitting to the means SP , (f) each second processing means SP, upon receiving the message from any of the first processing means CP, receives a message corresponding to the target software designated by the message. , And the settings of the providers V1, V2,...
Software libraries SL1, SL2 managed by
, A reply message for the distribution and / or maintenance request of the target software is created, and the network 2
Via the first processing means C of the source of the message
Function to send reply message to P and user computer
Receives the above failure report from (1) and
Have a function to communicate to providers V1, V2,
It has been achieved.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the distribution, management,
Many users U1, U2,... Using various kinds of target software to be maintained, and many software providers V1, V providing the above target software.
Are software distribution and maintenance systems utilizing a network for managing the distribution of the target software via the computer network 2;
(B) Each user U1, placed on each user computer 1 ,
U2, ... or set for each user / group
And each user set for each target software
U1, U2, ... or each user group
User identification information and use of each user U1, U2,.
Software management information for each target software
Information, software configuration information, and message processing method
User management data UD 1, UD2,.
, Target software groups SU1, SU2,... For use by the users U1, U2,..., And first processing means CP for managing the target software groups SU1, SU2,.
And (b) placed on the computer 3 of each software provider
Each software library SL1, SL2, ...
Provider identification information and software management information
And software configuration information and message processing method specification
Provider management including information, customer information and failure history information
.. , Provider software library groups SL1, SL2,..., Second processing means SP for providing services related to the software library groups SL1, SL2,. and a network 2 connecting the user computer 1 and the provider computer 3, (d) the first processing means CP is management the user
With reference to the data UD1, UD2,.
In response to the instruction of 2,... Or the instruction of the program set by the user, for one piece of target software, a message for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software is sent via the network 2 to the second processing means of the target software. SP, a reply message from the second processing means SP is received, and the contents of the reply and the user U
1, U2,... Has a function of performing processing for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software, and (e) each second processing means SP Upon receiving the message, the specified target software in the message, according provider V1, V2, ... set the contents of the received message, each
Set for each software library SL1, SL2, ...
.. And the software libraries SL1, SL2,... Managed by the providers V1, V2,. It is configured so as to have a function of creating and transmitting a reply message to the first processing means CP of the source of the corresponding message via the network 2.

[0035] The invention of claim 3 of the present invention relates to distribution, management, and management.
Many users U1, U2,... Using various kinds of target software to be maintained, and many software providers V1, V providing the above target software.
Are placed on each user calculation 1 in a software distribution / maintenance method utilizing a network for managing distribution of the target software via the computer network 2, and users U1, U2,. .., A first processing means CP for managing the target software groups SU1, SU2,..., And a provider software program provided on each software provider computer 3. Software Library SL1,
SL2,... And the above software library SL1,
Second processing means SP for providing services related to SL2,.
And a network (2) connecting each user computer 1 and each provider computer 3, (a) each user U1, U2,.
Starts the first processing means CP by a command input by the user U1, U2,... On the user computer (1) or by starting a command from a user setting program. And transmitting a message for requesting distribution and / or maintenance of the target software to the second processing means SP of the target software via the network (2). And the second processing means SP
Receives the message from the first processing means CP, and (d) determines the contents of the received message and the providers V1, V2,.
, The software library SL1, SL2,... Managed by the providers V1, V2,. Sends the reply message to the first processing means CP which is the source of the above-mentioned message. (E) On the computer of the users U1, U2,... receives the reply message from the means SP, the content of the reply and the user U1, U2, according ... setting, performs the processing for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software, the first on the user computer 1 Processing hand
Any target software managed by the Dan CP
When abnormally ending, the first processing means CP
Detects anomalies, analyzes the situation that caused the anomalies, and
The report message is sent via the network 2 to the software.
To the provider (Vk) of the
The processing means SP sends the failure report message via the network 2.
The message is received and transmitted to the provider (Vk) .

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the distribution, management,
Many users U1, U2,... Using various kinds of target software to be maintained, and many software providers V1, V providing the above target software.
, ..., in the software distribution and maintenance method utilizing the network for managing the distribution of the target software via the computer network 2, each user U1, U2 placed on each user computer 1 …,if
Is set for each user group,
Each user U1, U2,... Set for each software
Alternatively, user identification information corresponding to each user group
And the target software used by each user U1, U2, ...
Software management information corresponding to the software and software
User that includes configuration information and message processing method designation information.
User management data UD1, UD2,.
Target software group SU1, which is used by U2,.
SU2,... And the target software group SU1, SU
, And each software license set on each software provider computer 3.
Provider identification information set for each of the libraries SL1, SL2, ...
Information, software management information, and software configuration information
, Message processing method specification information, customer information, failure
Provider management data VD1, VD2 including history information
… And the software libraries SL1, S for the provider
L2,... And the above software libraries SL1, S
Second processing means SP for providing services related to L2,.
, And a network 2 connecting each user calculation 1 and each provider computer 3, (a) each user U1, U2,.
On the user computer 1, the first processing means CP is started by a command input by the user U1, U2,... Or by starting a command from a user setting program.
(B) Refer to the user management data UD1, UD2,.
Then, for one target software, a message of distribution and / or maintenance request of the target software is sent via the network 2 to the second target of the target software.
(C) On the provider computer 3 of the target software, the second processing means SP receives the message from the first processing means CP and (d) designates the message by the message. , Each of the software libraries SL1, SL2,... According to the contents of the received message and the settings of the providers V1, V2 ,.
, The management data for providers VD1, VD2,.
, With reference to the software libraries SL1, SL2,... Managed by the providers V1, V2,. The reply message is transmitted to the original first processing means CP, and (e) the users U1, U of the origin of the message are transmitted.
, The first processing means CP receives the reply message from the second processing means SP, and according to the contents of the reply and the settings of the users U1, U2,. Processing for distribution and / or maintenance is performed.

[0037] The invention of claim 5 of the present invention relates to distribution, management,
Using various types of target software for maintenance
... and the target software
Software providers V1 and V
Are connected via the computer network 2,
For a provider placed on the computer 3 of each software provider
Software libraries SL1, SL2,...
To the above software library group SL1, SL2, ...
There is a user computer 1 that receives services related to (1)
The user computer 1 is used by users U1, U2,.
Target software groups SU1, SU2, ...
, Which manages the target software groups SU1, SU2,.
A first processing means CP, wherein the first processing means CP comprises:
(B) User U1, U2,...
One target software according to the instructions of the program
Distribution and / or maintenance of the Software
Send the request message via the network 2
Software that provides software-related services
The information is transmitted to the second processing means SP of the computer 3 of the provider, and
The computer of the software provider is a tube of the providers V1, V2, ...
Software libraries SL1, SL2, ...
Refer to the target software specified in the above message
About the contents of the above message and the providers V1, V2,
Create a reply message according to the settings of
When the message is transmitted to the first processing means CP, the first
Receives the reply message and returns the reply message.
According to the contents of the message and the settings of the users U1, U2,.
Process for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software
(C) the first processing on the user computer (1)
If the target software managed by the
If an abnormal end occurs during execution, an error is detected and an
Analyze the situation and send the failure report to Network 2.
Via the second processing means SP of the providers V1, V2,.
And a function for dynamic transmission.

[0038] The invention of claim 6 of the present invention relates to distribution, management, and management.
Using various types of target software for maintenance
... and the target software
Software providers V1 and V
Are connected via the computer network 2,
On each user computer, on the computer 3 of the software provider
Software libraries SL for placed providers
1, SL2,... And the above-mentioned software library group S
Software that provides services related to L1, SL2, ...
The software provided by the software provider
Computer 3 is a software library for the provider
The groups SL1, SL2, ... and the above software library
The second service group provides services related to the groups SL1, SL2,.
Processing means SP, the second processing means SP comprising (b)
From the user computer, instructions of users U1, U2,.
One target software according to the instruction of the user setting program
Software, distribution of the applicable software and
When a maintenance request message is received,
For the target software specified in the message
According to the contents of the sage and the settings of the providers V1, V2, ...
Software live managed by providers V1, V2, ...
Rally SL1, SL2,...
Create a reply message for distribution and / or maintenance
And issue the corresponding message via the network (2).
Sends a reply message to the first processing means CP of the sender
Functions and (c) any object managed by the user computer (1)
If the software terminates abnormally during its execution,
Received via the network 2
Function to tell the software providers V1, V2, ...
It is provided. The invention of claim 7 of the present invention
Benefit many kinds of target software to be subjected to the management and maintenance
.. And a number of users U1, U2,.
Many software providers V that provide software
1, V2, ... are connected via the computer network 2.
Of the software placed on the computer 3 of each software provider
Software libraries for providers SL1, SL2
... and the above-mentioned software library group SL1, SL
The user computer (1) who receives the service related to 2, ...
Therefore, (a) the user computer 1 is configured for each user U1, U2,
… Or set for each user group
User U1, U set for each target software
2, ... or users corresponding to each user group
, And each pair used by each user U1, U2,.
Software management information corresponding to the
Software configuration information and message processing method designation information
, Including user management data UD1, UD2,.
Target software group for use by the U1, U2, ...
.., SU1, SU2,...
, SU2,..., And
The first processing means CP includes: (b) the user management data;
UD1, UD2,..., User U1, U2,
According to the instruction of ... or the instruction of the program of the user setting
Therefore, for one target software,
Network distribution and / or maintenance request messages
Via the network 2
And the software provider's computer sends the message
For the target software specified in the message
According to the contents of the sage and the settings of the providers V1, V2, ...
Set for each software library SL1, SL2, ...
Provider identification information, software management information,
Software configuration information and message processing method specification information
Provider management data including customer information and fault history information.
Tubes of data VD1, VD2, ... and providers V1, V2, ...
Software libraries SL1, SL2, ...
With reference to the distribution and / or
Create a reply message for the security request and send it via network 2.
And the first processing means CP of the source of the message
When you make a call, you will receive the reply message and
According to the contents and the settings of the users U1, U2,.
Performs processing for software distribution and / or maintenance
It is configured to have a function.

The invention of claim 8 of the present invention relates to distribution, management,
Using various types of target software for maintenance
... and the target software
Software providers V1 and V
Are connected via the computer network 2,
On each user computer, on the computer 3 of the software provider
Software libraries SL for placed providers
1, SL2,... And the above-mentioned software library group S
Software that provides services related to L1, SL2, ...
The software provided by the software provider
Computer 3 has software libraries SL1,
SL2, ..., provider identification information set for each
Software management information, software configuration information, and messages
Processing method designation information, customer information, and failure history information.
, And provider management data VD1, VD2,.
Software libraries SL1, SL2,...
To the above software library group SL1, SL2, ...
Second processing means SP for performing related services,
(B) The second processing means SP includes a user computer
The U1, U2, ... or for each user group
Set for each target software
User U1, U2,... Or each user group
, And user U1, U2,...
Software for each target software used by
Management information, software configuration information, and message processing
User management data UD1, UD including method designation information
,.., And instructions of users U1, U2,.
One target software according to the instruction of the user setting program
Software, distribution of the applicable software and
And / or maintenance request message via network 2
To the second processing means SP of the target software
Then, the above message is received and specified in the message.
Of the received software for the target software
And software V1, V2,...
Provided for each library SL1, SL2, ...
, And provider data V1, VD2,.
Software libraries SL1, S managed by 2, ...
L2, ..., distribution of the above target software and
Create a reply message for maintenance request and
User 2 of the source of the corresponding message via network 2
With a function to send a reply message to the
It is a thing.

Further , the present invention is configured as follows.
Can also. (1) When one provider V1, V2,... Provides each version of each target software to multiple users U1, U2,. User U
The role of j and the role of the provider Vk for a certain version of some other target software are compatible,
In addition, one computer is configured to be compatible with one or a plurality of first processing units CP and one or a plurality of second processing units SP. This
Users of computers connected to the network
Quickly and properly obtain other users' software
Can be

(2) User Management Data UD1, UD
In the specification of the message processing of 2, 2,..., The user U1, U2
2, ... can set the processing method as a procedure. Thereby, the first processing unit CP is shared.
As well as various processing methods for each user.
Can be specified.

(3) User Management Data UD1, UD
In the specification of message processing of 2,..., It is possible to specify a provider confirmation procedure. Thereby, the first processing
The means CP can be shared, and the provider
Authentication method can be set variously for each user.
You.

(4) Provider Management Data VD1, VD
When the message processing of 2,... Is designated, the second processing means S
For each function that P processes, the providers V1, V2,.
Is configured so that the processing method can be set as a procedure. Thereby, the second processing means SP can be shared.
And the provider can set various processing methods.
Can be

(5) Provider Management Data VD1, VD
When the message processing of 2,... Is designated, the user confirmation procedure can be designated. Thereby, the second processing means
SP can be shared and provider confirmation processing
The provider can set various methods of management.

(6) Each user U 1, U 2,... Can simultaneously own and use a plurality of versions of each target software. This allows the user to use
Old version software that can be used with stability
And a new version of software with new functions
Can be used to improve the usability of the software
Can be made.

(7) Message of User Management Data UDj
When referring to the page processing method designation information, the first processing
In response to each function processed by the means CP, the user Uj
Call and use the processing method set as a lossy
To do. Thereby, the first processing means CP is shared.
And various processing methods for each user.
Can be set.

(8) When referring to the message processing method designation information of the user management data UDj, the user Uj
Calls the provider confirmation procedure set by the first processing means CP, and the message received by the first processing means CP is a valid provider Vk.
Make sure that the message is legitimate. As a result, the first processing means CP can be shared.
As well as the method of provider confirmation processing for each user.
Can be set in various ways.

(9) When referring to the message processing method designation information of the provider management data VDi, the processing method set by the provider Vk is set in a procedure corresponding to each function processed by the second processing means SP. To be called as This makes the second processing means SP common.
And the provider sets various processing methods.
be able to.

(10) When referring to the message processing method designation information of the provider management data VDi, the user confirmation procedure is called, the identity of the source user Uj of the received message is confirmed, and the user qualification is determined. Thereby, the way of reply processing is distinguished. to this
The provider can set various methods for the provider confirmation process.
And can support various software distribution
can do.

(11) In the processing of the user confirmation procedure as a part of the provider management data VDi, the contract relationship for the target software Si, the payment relationship for the target software, or the money for the new service of the target software. The user qualification is determined using a commercial relationship such as a payment relationship. this
Of various software such as product software
You can respond to any request.

(12) In processing the user confirmation procedure as part of the provider management data VDi, the user U
1, U2,... Or users U1, U2,
, Or user identity information such as personal names of users U1, U2,.
By determining that only U2,... Are qualified, the provision and distribution of the target software can be performed by users U1, U
Limit to 2, ... This allows for internal use
For distribution of various software such as software distribution
I can respond.

(13) Provider Management Data VD1, VD2,
When processing the user confirmation procedure as part of…
In order to confirm the users U1, U2,..., A password is used. This allows product software, internal
To non-qualified users when distributing software for
Software can be prevented from being distributed.

(14) User Computer 1 and Provider Computer 3
Is connected to the network 2 only when necessary, in such a manner that transmission, transmission or reception of information from each of them is performed reliably. For example, a connection form such as a telephone or a form such as a mail may be used. This
Even computers that are not always connected to the network,
Softphone-like or email-like
Software can be provided / obtained, and software
Can be improved in convenience of distribution.

(15) In the header portion of the message communicated via the network 2, the destination and the sender are specified, and the title description field contains the software distribution / maintenance system name and the software distribution / maintenance processing type. Name,
And the target software name. this
Makes it easy to understand the destination, caller, system name, etc.
Can be

(16) When the user Uj starts the first processing means CP on the user computer 1 by inputting a command, the first processing means CP replaces the user name, the command name, and the target software name with each other. Then, an interactive screen for editing a message corresponding to the designated command is created, and the user Uj and the user management data UDj relating to the target software Si are referred to, or a user setting processing procedure is called, and the user Uj is called. It prompts the creation of a message for the command, sends the created message to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk of the target software Si, records the message transmission, and returns to the standby state. This allows the user to have a conversational and easy
Messages can be created, making it easy for unskilled users
Can be used for

(17) On the user computer 1, the user Uj
When the first processing means CP is activated by a command input from the program set by the user or by abnormal stop of the target software Si managed by the first processing means CP, the first processing means CP , The command name, and the target software name, and in response to the started command, refers to the user management data UDj relating to the user Uj and the target software Si, or calls a user setting processing procedure to execute the command. Is transmitted to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk of the target software Si, and the transmission of the message is recorded before returning to the standby state. This launches the target software for the user.
When the target software is stopped abnormally,
Is a first processing unit CP from a daemon program or the like.
Can be started. In particular, user program launches
In the event of an update, the user will always be
The updated target software can be used.
Also, the daemon program can be used at night, early morning, etc.
Inquiry about the update of the target software
Target software without having to wait for software
Inquiry of software update can be performed. In addition, abnormal stop
By activating the first processing means CP at the time of stopping, etc.,
The software provider may provide bugs for the provided software, etc.
Can be grasped immediately and maintenance work can be performed quickly.
It is possible to do.

(18) On the user computer 1, a message from the network 2 is received and the first processing unit CP
Is activated, the first processing means CP obtains the destination user name, the command name, and the target software name from the header of the received message, and obtains the user Uj corresponding to the subsequent processing and the user associated with the target software Si. Management data UD
j, the sender is known from the header portion of the received message to confirm that the sender is a legitimate provider Vk of the target software Si, and the first processing means CP is in a reply waiting state. Confirm that this is the case, refer to the user management data UDj according to the command of the received message, or call the processing procedure of the user setting to analyze and store the information of the message, or store the software in the message. Alternatively, for a specific type of received message, the fact of reception or its treatment status is confirmed via the network 2 for the second processing means S of the provider Vk for confirmation.
Reply to P to record the message transmission and return to the standby state. Thereby, the first processing means CP
, At the time of the message received, the provider of the confirmation, the message
For messages such as analysis and software installation
The corresponding processing is performed by the user management data UD1, UD2,.
And user-defined processing procedures.
You.

(19) The first processing means CP performs the following processing according to the activation cause of the first processing means CP. (A) When the first processing means CP is started by a command input on the user computer 1, the first processing means CP obtains a user name, a command name, and a target software name, and executes a designated command. To create a conversational screen for message editing corresponding to, and refer to the user management data UDj for the user Uj and the target software Si, or
Invokes the user-set processing procedure and calls the user Uj
, And sends the created message to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk of the target software Si, records the transmission of the message, and returns to the standby state. (B) When the first processing means CP is started on the user computer 1 by a command input from a program set by the user Uj or by abnormal stop of the target software managed by the first processing means CP, The first processing means CP obtains the user name, the command name, and the target software name, and refers to the user management data UDj relating to the user Uj and the target software Si in response to the started command, or The setting processing procedure is called, a message of the command is created, the created message is sent to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk of the target software Si, and the sending of the message is recorded and waits. Return to the state. (C) When a message from the network 2 is received on the user computer 1 and the first processing means CP is activated, the first processing means CP sends the destination user name, The command name and the target software name are obtained, the user Uj and the user management data UDj relating to the target software Si are used in the subsequent processing, and the sender is obtained from the header portion of the received message,
In addition to confirming that the sender is a legitimate provider Vk of the target software Si, confirming that the first processing means CP is in a reply waiting state, and transmitting the user management data UDj according to the command of the received message. Refer to or call the user-set processing procedure to analyze and store the information in the message, or store or install the software in the message,
For certain types of incoming messages,
The fact of reception or the status of the treatment is returned to the second processing means SP via the network 2, the transmission of the message is recorded, and the process returns to the standby state. As mentioned above,
In response, the first processing unit CP performs the processing,
Activating the first processing means CP at an appropriate timing
Can be.

(20) Each time the first processing unit CP is activated, a new processing process is generated, and a plurality of processing processes can be executed in parallel for processes other than the processes related to the same target software of the same user. . this
Request and update request required by multiple users
A plurality of processes such as a meeting can be performed in parallel.

(21) The second processing means SP on the provider computer 3 performs the following processing. (A) The second processing means SP is always in a standby state, and when a message is received from any first processing means CP via the network 2, the second processing means SP is activated. The obtained second processing means SP first obtains the command name and the target software name from the header part of the received message, distributes the subsequent processing for each of the target software Si, and (c) the user who transmitted from the received message. A name and its user identification information are obtained and collated with the provider management data VDi to confirm the user Uj and determine the access qualification of the user Uj with respect to the above command. Analyze the contents of the message, and (e) provide summary information of the software Si, provide new software services, and update software in response to the received command. Search for information for providing and updating software, send information and other messages, and construct a reply message. (F) After recording the outline of the reply message to the user Uj, Sends a reply message to the first processing means CP of the user Uj, and (g) returns to the standby state. Second processing on provider computer 3
The means SP performs the above-mentioned processes (a) to (g).
When the message is received, the second processing means SP
User access qualification, message analysis, reply message
Perform processing corresponding to the received message, such as the composition of the message
be able to.

(22) Each time the second processing means SP is activated, a new processing process is generated, and for processing other than processing relating to the same target software of the same user,
A plurality of processing processes can be executed in parallel. This
Received from a large number of users via the network
Multiple operations can be performed on a message in parallel
it can.

(23) The following processing is performed when the users U1, U2,... Obtain the outline information of the target software that they do not own. On the user computer 1, (a) the user Uj inputs a summary inquiry command to activate the first processing means CP on the user computer 1, and the software name Si, the provider name Vk and the provider network address, And reply information storage directory, etc.,
A summary information inquiry message is created by the first processing means CP. (B) The first processing means CP sends the created message to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk. (C) Upon receiving the summary information inquiry message via the network 2, the second processing means SP of the provider Vk is activated, and (d) the second processing means SP executes the target software Si for which the summary inquiry was performed. With reference to the provider management data VDi, the identity of the source user Uj is determined and the access qualification is determined. (E) Provider setting for providing summary information to the qualified user Uj The procedure is called to create summary information and its configuration, etc. as a summary information message. (F) The created message is first processed by the source user Uj via the network 2. To send to the addressed stage CP.
The users U1, U2,...
For software, provide summary information on the target software.
At the time of obtaining, by performing the above-mentioned processing (a) to (f)
And the summary information required by qualified users U1, U2, ...
Can be obtained quickly and properly.

(24) The following processes are performed when the users U1, U2,... Newly obtain the target software for the target software they do not own. On the user computer 1, (a) the user Uj inputs a new acquisition command, activates the first processing means CP on the user computer 1, and executes user identification information, software information of the target software Si, and provider identification information. And the post-acquisition processing information is set, and a new acquisition request message is created by the first processing means CP. (B) The first processing means CP sends the created message to the first (C) When the new acquisition request message is received via the network 2 on the provider computer 3, the second processing means SP of the provider Vk is activated, and The second processing means SP refers to the provider management data VDi relating to the target software Si for which a new acquisition request has been made, and confirms the identity of the source user Uj. Judgment of access qualification is performed. (E) For a qualified user Uj, a provider setting procedure for providing new provision is called to provide a version Si. V. 1 is obtained, a set of provided version modules is obtained, installation instruction information on the user computer 1 is configured, a newly provided reply message is created, and the created new provided message is transmitted to the network. 2
Is transmitted to the first processing means CP of the originating user Uj via the network, and the user computer 1 receives the new provision message from the provider Vk via the network 2; The means CP is activated. (H) The first processing means CP obtains the destination user name and the target software name from the header of the received message, and refers to the corresponding user management data UDj to perform the first processing. The processing means CP is currently in a state of waiting for new acquisition, and
After confirming that the sender is the authorized provider Vk, (i) calling the user setting new acquisition processing procedure and referring to the installation information in the received message, the newly provided software Si And, when judged appropriate, install the newly provided software, and (nu) record the received message and its processing result,
Return to the standby state. Users U1, U2,...
If the target software is not
When acquiring a new piece of software,
By doing so, qualified users U1, U
Quickly provide newly provided software that requires
Can be properly obtained. Also, do not install
Target software obtained by unskilled users
Wear can be easily used.

(25) The following processing is performed when the users U1, U2,... Add or switch to and obtain a new service for the target software already possessed. On the user computer 1, (a) the user Uj inputs a new service request command and starts the first processing means CP on the user computer 1,
User identification information, software information of the software Si, provider identification information, and post-acquisition processing information are set, and a new service request message is created by the first processing means CP. (B) First processing means The CP sends the created message to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk, and on the provider computer 3, (c) upon receiving the new service request message via the network 2, the CP of the provider Vk 2 processing means SP
(D) The second processing means SP executes the provider management data VDi relating to the target software Si for which a new service request has been made.
, The identity of the source user Uj and the determination of the access qualification are determined, and (e) a version to be provided by calling a provider setting procedure for providing a new service to the qualified user Uj Si. V. 1 is obtained, a set of modules of the provided version is obtained, the installation instruction information on the user computer 1 is configured, and a measure for the old service is specified, and a reply new service providing message is created. (F) The created new service providing message is transmitted via the network 2 to the first processing means C of the source user Uj.
P, and the user computer 1 receives the new service providing message from the provider Vk via the network 2;
(H) The first processing means CP obtains the destination user name and the target software name from the header of the received message, and refers to the corresponding user management data UDj to execute the first processing means CP. The CP is currently waiting for a new service,
Also, it is confirmed that the sender is the authorized provider Vk, and (i) the new service is provided on the user computer 1 by calling the user-set processing procedure and referring to the installation information in the received message. Accommodates the software Si and installs the new service providing software when it is judged appropriate. (Nu) Records the received message and its processing result,
Return to the standby state. User U1, U2,...
For new software that already has the target software,
When you add or switch the software,
~ (Nu), the qualified user U
1, U2, ... receive new services quickly and appropriately
Can be In addition, software that provides new services
It is also possible to install
Can easily use the acquired software.
it can.

(26) The users U1, U2,...
When the update status is inquired to 2,... And the sending of the updated software is requested, the following processing is performed. On the user computer 1, (a) the user Uj inputs an update inquiry command to activate the first processing means CP on the user computer 1, and the user identification information, the software information of the target software Si, and the provider identification information , Software management information, and post-acquisition processing information are set, and the first processing means CP creates an update inquiry message. (B) The first processing means CP provides the created message to the target software Si. Processing means SP of the person Vk
(C) When the update inquiry message is received via the network 2 on the provider computer 3, the second processing means SP of the provider Vk is activated, and (d) the second processing means The SP refers to the provider management data VDi relating to the target software Si for which the update has been inquired, and confirms the identity of the source user Uj and determines the access qualification. (E) For the qualified user Uj, The version type Si. To be provided by calling the update inquiry reply processing procedure of the provider setting. V and its latest version Si. V. is determined and compared with the current version of the user Uj. (f) If the current version of the user Uj is the same as the latest version, a non-updated message is created and the created reply message is sent to the network 2 User Uj via query
(G) the target software Si. Of the same version type as the current version of the user Uj. If V has been updated, instruction information for module deletion / addition and a module group that needs to be added are created as an update instruction message, and the created reply message is sent via the network 2 to the inquiry source. (H) If it is determined that it is desirable to switch the target software Si to a new service version, a non-update message and a new service version Si. A notification message for introduction of V 'is created, and the created reply message is transmitted to the first processing means CP of the user Uj of the inquiry source via the network 2, and on the user computer 1, Receives an update instruction message or a non-update message from the provider Vk via
The first processing means CP of the user Uj is activated. (N) The first processing means CP obtains the destination user name and the target software name from the header of the received message, and stores the corresponding user management data UDj. While referencing, it is confirmed that the first processing means CP is currently in a waiting state after the update inquiry, and that the sender is the legitimate provider Vk. Records the received message and its processing result and returns to the standby state. (ヲ) When the update instruction message is received, calls the user-set update reception processing procedure and updates the update instruction information in the received message. Refer to the user computer 1
Above, the software of the update instruction message is accommodated, and when judged appropriate, the software is installed. (V) The received message and its processing result are recorded
Return to the standby state. User U1, U2,...
For the target software that you already have, Provider V
1, V2, ... for the update status,
When requesting a delivery, enter the new service request command
To activate the first processing means CP on the user computer 1,
By performing the above processes (a) to (v), a qualified
When users U1, U2,...
Can quickly know nothing and the target software is
If so, the updated Covered Software
Can be obtained immediately. In addition, update software
It is also possible to install
Users can easily use the acquired software.
Can be.

(27) The users V1, U2,...
When the update status is inquired to 2,... And the sending of the updated software is requested, the following processing is performed. On the user computer 1, (a) the first processing means CP is started by an update inquiry command instruction from a program set by the user Uj, and
Of the user setting update query automatic editing by the processing means CP of
(B) The first processing means CP converts the created message into the second processing means SP of the provider Vk of the target software Si.
(C) When the update inquiry message is received via the network 2 on the provider computer 3, the second processing means SP of the provider Vk is activated, and (d) the second processing means The SP refers to the provider management data VDi relating to the target software Si for which the update has been inquired, and confirms the identity of the source user Uj and determines the access qualification. (E) For the qualified user Uj, The version type Si. To be provided by calling the update inquiry reply processing procedure of the provider setting. V and its latest version Si. V. is determined and compared with the current version of the user Uj. (f) If the current version of the user Uj is the same as the latest version, a non-updated message is created and the created reply message is sent to the network 2 User Uj via query
(G) If the target software of the same version type as the current version of the user Uj has been updated, the module deletion / addition instruction information and the module that needs to be added The group main body is created as an update instruction message, and the created reply message is transmitted to the first processing means CP of the inquiry source user Uj via the network 2, and (h) the version of the target software Si to the new service If it is determined that the switching to is desirable, a message of no update and a notification message of introduction of a new version are created, and the created response message is sent via the network 2 to the first user Uj of the inquiry source. It is transmitted to the processing means CP, and on the user computer 1, (i) an update instruction message from the provider Vk via the network 2 When receives a free update message,
The first processing means CP of the user Uj is activated. (N) The first processing means CP obtains the destination user name and the target software name from the header of the received message, and stores the corresponding user management data UDj. While referencing, it is confirmed that the first processing means CP is currently in a waiting state after the update inquiry, and that the sender is the legitimate provider Vk. Records the received message and its processing result and returns to the standby state. (ヲ) When the update instruction message is received, calls the user-set update reception processing procedure and updates the update instruction information in the received message. Refer to the user computer 1
Above, the software of the update instruction message is accommodated, and when judged appropriate, the software is installed. (V) The received message and its processing result are recorded
Return to the standby state. Users U1, U2, ... already have
Provider software V1, V2,
Inquiry of the update status to… and request to send updated software
When the program is set by the user U1, U2, ...
The first processing means CP according to the update inquiry command
Start up and perform the above processes (a) to (v).
, The qualified users U1, U2,.
Updates when the software starts, or at night, early morning, etc.
Automatically updates target software based on information availability
Users can always update the target software
Can be used. Furthermore, update software
Unskilled because it is also possible to install hardware
Users easily use the updated software
Can be .

(28) The first processing means CP determines that the provider V
k, when the new software, the new service software, or the updated software sent by the provider Vk is accommodated or installed in the user computer 1, the first processing means CP executes the processing result. Is monitored, and whether the processing result is normal or trouble has occurred is transmitted to the second processing means SP of the provider Vk via the network 2 as a processing result confirmation message. This allows the provider
The processing result in the user computer 1 can be grasped.
You.

[Action]

In FIG. 1, users U1, U2,.
When an acquisition inquiry command is started by designating desired software and its providers V1, V2,..., The first processing means CP
Sends an acquisition inquiry message to the software providers V1, V2,. The second processing means SP of the provider receives this, checks the qualification of the user, automatically processes the data according to the settings of the management data VD1, VD2,... For the provider, and returns it to the user.

The first processing means CP which has transmitted the acquisition inquiry message receives this reply and relays it to the user. When the main body of the software is returned, the first processing unit CP stores the software according to the instruction information in the reply. Further, the first processing means CP can refer to the user management data UD1, UD2,..., Perform necessary translation / combination according to the settings, and automatically install the data in a prepared area.

Also, if the software currently used by the users U1, U2,... Is inquired as to whether or not there is a subsequent update / improvement, etc. The user U1, U2, ... starts the first processing means CP by designating the software name to be updated and inquired. The first processing means CP refers to the user management data UD1, UD2,..., Extracts the configuration of the software Si.V currently used by the user, adds user identification information thereto, Send an automatic update inquiry message to V1, V2,...

When the second processing means SP receives this,
In accordance with the settings of the provider management data VD1, VD2,..., The qualification of the user is checked, and software update information is returned to the user. For qualified users,
As the update information, for example, if the software has not been updated, “no update” is returned. Software main body ".

Upon receiving the reply, the first processing means CP first stores, for example, updated software in accordance with the settings of the user management data UD1, UD2,. Replace with the previous version according to the update instruction information in the
Perform a join to make the new version executable. The activation method of the update inquiry includes activation by the user, automatic activation when the user calls the software, and activation by a designated time (for example, every day, every week, every month, etc.) by the daemon program.

On the user computer 1, the first processing means CP
If the software managed by the client terminates abnormally during its execution, the first processing means CP detects the cause and situation of the abnormality and automatically sends a failure report message to the providers V1, V2,. Send. The second processing means SP records this and reports it to the developer. Further, a message to the effect that the failure information has been received is returned to the user. Bug fix work is done manually by the developer and registered in the target software library of the provider. Thereafter, the updated version is provided to the user as the latest version.

According to the first, fifth , and seventh aspects of the present invention, as described above, a large number of users U utilizing various types of target software to be distributed, managed, and maintained are used.
, And a number of software providers V1, V2,... Providing the target software are connected via a computer network 2,
Each user computer 1 has target software groups SU1, SU2,... For use by users U1, U2,... And first processing means CP having a function of managing the target software groups SU1, SU2,. , And a second processing means provided on the computer 3 of each software provider with a function of providing software libraries SL1, SL2,... For the providers and services relating to the software libraries SL1, SL2,. Since the SP is placed and connected by the network 2 connecting each user computer 1 and each provider computer 3, many and various software providers and users can distribute many and various target software, In addition, software providers create and
The updated software can be obtained and used promptly and appropriately. Further, when any target software terminates abnormally during execution, the first processing means CP detects the abnormality and analyzes the situation in which the abnormality has occurred, and reports the failure report via the network 2 to the provider V1. , V2, ... second
Is automatically transmitted to the processing means SP, and the second processing means SP of the providers V1, V2,... Has the function of receiving the failure report and transmitting it to the providers V1, V2,. A software provider can immediately recognize that a software failure has occurred, and can quickly deal with a software failure.

According to the second, sixth and eighth aspects of the present invention,
Is the same as the invention of claim 1,
Providers and users will be able to
Software distribution and software providers
Quickly and properly obtain and update software
Can be used. Also, on each user computer 1,
Each user U1, U2,... Or each user group
Set for each target software, and set for each target software.
, User management data UD1, UD2,.
First processing means CP management for the user data UD1, U
Refer to D2, ...
Manages software groups SU1, SU2,.
The management data UD1, UD2,...
U2, ... or the user corresponding to each user group
User identification information and each user U1, U2,.
Software management information corresponding to the target software,
Software configuration information and message processing method specification information
And the first processing means CP are shared.
Various settings can be set for each user
It can be performed. Furthermore, on each provider computer 3,
And the second processing means SP is the target software live
When performing services related to Rari SL1, SL2, ...
And each software library SL1, SL2, ...
The management data for providers VD1, VD2,.
For reference, the provider management data VD1,
VD2, ..., the provider identification information and the software management information
Information, software configuration information, and message processing method
Information, customer information, and failure history information.
Therefore, the second processing means SP is connected to each software live
Rari SL1, SL2, ... can be shared
As well as various settings by the provider.
You.

In the invention of claim 3 of the present invention, a large number of users U1, U2,... Using various types of target software to be distributed, managed and maintained, and the target software are provided. , A software distribution and maintenance method utilizing a network for managing distribution of the target software via the computer network 2,
Target software groups SU1, SU2,... Placed on each user computer 1 and used by users U1, U2,.
, A first processing unit CP for managing the target software groups SU1, SU2,..., A provider software library SL1, SL2,. Using the second processing means SP for performing services related to the libraries SL1, SL2,... And the network 2 connecting each user computer 1 and each provider computer 3, the processes (a) to (e) are performed. As in the first aspect of the present invention,
A variety of software providers and users can distribute many and various target software,
Software providers can quickly and appropriately obtain and use software created and updated. Further, when the target software terminates abnormally during its execution, the first processing means CP detects the abnormality and analyzes the situation where the abnormality has occurred, and sends the failure report message via the network 2. The message is transmitted to the software provider Vk, and the second processing means SP of the provider Vk receives the failure report message via the network 2 and
k, so that as in the second aspect of the invention,
A software provider can immediately recognize that a software failure has occurred, and can quickly deal with a software failure.

In the invention of claim 4 of the present invention, similarly to the invention of claim 3, a large number of various software providers and users can distribute a large number of various target software, and Created by software provider
The updated software can be obtained and used promptly and appropriately. Also, on each user computer 1, user management data UD1, UD2,... Set for each user U1, U2,. 1 processing means CP refers to the user management data UD1, UD2,.
, SU2,..., And the user management data UD1, UD2,.
, Or user identification information corresponding to each user group, software management information corresponding to each target software used by each user U1, U2,..., Software configuration information, and message processing method designation , The first processing means CP refers to the user management data UD1, UD2,...
Can be shared, and various settings can be made for each user. In addition, each proposal
On the provider computer 3, the second processing means SP
Support for software libraries SL1, SL2, ...
When providing services, each software library SL
Refer to the provider management data VDi set for each i
I Unishi, also, the second processing means SP is the provider for the management de
When referring to data VD1, VD2,.
Provider knowledge corresponding to each target software library
Separate information, software management information, and software configuration
Information, message processing method designation information, customer information,
Refer to information including update history information and failure history information
So that the second processing means SP
・ Common for libraries SL1, SL2, ...
And make various settings by the provider.
Can be.

[0078]

Embodiment (1) System Configuration FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a system configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, reference numerals 11, 12, and 13 denote user computers. In the figure, the software S1.V, S2.V is provided for the user computer 11, and the software S1.
2.V ', software S1.V ", S3.V, and software S1.V', S3.V" are stored in the user computer 13, the user computer 11 is used by the user U1, and the user computer 12 is stored in the user computer 12. The embodiment is used by the users U2 and U3, and the user computer 13 is used by the user U4. These softwares are managed by this system as described later. Hereinafter, software managed by this system is referred to as target software Si, and the type of the target software is distinguished by i.

A communication network 21 is a general-purpose communication network.
The client programs 12 and 13 are connected to the server programs of the provider computers 31 and 32. 31,3
2 is a provider-side computer. In the figure, two provider-side computers 31 and 32 are provided, and providers V1 and V2 are provided.
The provider computers 31 and 32 provide the target software of the user computers 11, 12 and 13, and perform update management and maintenance.

Although FIG. 2 shows the user computer and the provider computer separately, one computer may be the provider computer and the user computer. For example, a computer A may provide specific target software to another computer B to perform update management and maintenance, and the computer A may use target software provided from another computer B.

In FIG. 2, the software distribution / maintenance system of this embodiment has the following configuration. (i) Server program SP This is a program that is placed on each of the computers 31 and 32 of each provider, and returns necessary information and software in response to various inquiries and requests from the user Uj.

In this embodiment, each provider computer 3
1, an example is shown in which the same server program SP is placed one by one. The server program SP
Each time it is started, a new processing process is generated, and a plurality of server program processing processes can be executed in parallel unless they relate to the same target software of the same user. Therefore, if the server program SP is not the same target software of the same user, the server program SP can simultaneously process the user's message. (ii) Provider management data VD (Si) Data such as provider identification information, software configuration information, customer management information, etc., corresponding to each software library managed by the server program, and the method of processing the reply. This is data that includes specified information (such as procedures) and is used by the server program SP for reply processing.

In this embodiment, the following information is set on the computers 31 and 32 of each provider Vk (V1, V2 in this embodiment) and corresponding to each provided target software Si. . -Provider identification information: Provider name Vk, provider network address, etc .;-Software management information: Software name Si, location of software library SL (Si), type and name of version, etc .;-Software Configuration information: module configuration for each version, etc .;-Processing method information: user check method, password identification method, classification method into versions based on user management information, installation instruction information configuration method, etc .;-Customer information: • User identification information, personal identification number, contract status, provided software version, provided history, etc. for each customer user Uj; • Update history information: development / update work history information, failure contact information, etc .; • Failure information: failure information History, failure information by classification, failure correction history, etc .; (iii) Provider's software library SL (Si) A software library managed by a provider of each software Si, and includes various versions Si.V.

As described above, in each target software in the software library, Si indicates the type of software, and for example, S1 and S2 indicate different software. Also, Si.
V, Si.V 'and Si.V "indicate the version type names of the same type of software. For example, Si.V is UN
IX, Si.V 'for DOS-V, Si.V "for MS-D
It shows the differences in applied systems, such as for OS.

Further, although not shown in the figure, each target software Si.V, Si.V ', Si.V "has a version number (for example, Si.V.l) indicating its update information. The version number is increased every time the version is updated, and is expressed as, for example, Si.V.1, Si.V.2,. The module configuration of each version is set as software configuration information of the provider management data VD (Si), and every time the module is updated, the version number of the module Mm.l is updated. Raise.

For example, as shown in the figure, the target software S1.V is composed of modules Ma.1, Mi.1, Mm.1, and Mi.
The module Mi.2 indicates an updated version of the module Mi.1. The above-mentioned provider management data VD (Si) is stored for each software type (for example, software S1, S2,
..) And the server program SP performs necessary information and software return processing with reference to the provider management data VD (Si) for each software type. (iv) Client program CP placed on each user computer, sends various messages from the user to the provider, such as a software acquisition request, an update inquiry, a failure report, and receives a reply from the provider, Performs processing such as updating the software of the user.

In this embodiment, each user computer 1
The same client program C on 1, 12, 13
An example with P is shown. Like the server program SP, the client program CP generates a new processing process each time it is started, and a plurality of client program processing processes can be executed in parallel unless they relate to the same target software of the same user. . Therefore, if the client program CP is not the same target software of the same user, the client program CP can simultaneously process a new acquisition request / inquiry of the user. (v) User management data UD (Uj) The user management data UD (Uj) is provided in correspondence with each of the users U1, U2, U3, U4 managed by the client program CP. Contains information (procedure) that defines the processing method. The user management data UD (Uj) is stored in the client
Program CP requests software acquisition, updates,
It is used when transmitting various messages such as a failure report and when performing processing such as updating the software of the user.

In the present embodiment, the following information is set for each user Uj. -User identification information: user name Uj, user's network address, personal identification number, used model, used OS, user category, etc.-Software list information: List of software version names (Si.V); The following information was set for each version of. -Software management information: software name Si, provider identification information, version indication, software version name Si.V, contract status, etc.-Software configuration information: version module configuration information, etc.-Processing method information: transmission Processing method, reception processing method, sender check method, etc .; installation processing information: installation processing procedure, etc .; (vi) target software Si used by each user Si is placed on the user computers 11, 12, 13; The user uses a specific version of each software. In the figure, for example, target software S1.V and S2.V are shown as the target software used by the user U1, and the target software used by the user U2 has a different version type from the target software S2.V. The target software S2.V 'is shown, and the user U3
, U4, respectively, the target software S1.
V ", S3.V, and target software S1.V ', S3.V".

In this embodiment, each version Si.V of software is placed under one directory on the user computer, and each module Mm.l is managed as a file. Further, the user can own and use a plurality of versions of each target software. As a result, the user can use both the old version of the target software that can be used stably and the new version of the target software having new functions. (vii) Communication Network 21 An ordinary UNIX-based network was used and conformed to the e-mail protocol. For example, the message configuration shown in FIG. 3 was used.

Note that the user computer 1 in this embodiment is
1, 12, 13 and the provider computers 31, 32 need not always be connected to the network at all times, and it is sufficient that both or one of them is connected to the network when exchanging messages. In other words, both the user computer and the provider computer can be connected to the network at the same time to exchange messages.However, as in the case of e-mail, the user sends a message to an exchange connected to the network and provides It is also possible for a person to see the message and exchange messages at regular intervals. (2) Function of Software Distribution / Maintenance System Next, each function of the system of the present embodiment will be described. (i) Initial acquisition and installation of the software main body When the user designates the desired software Si and the network address of the provider Vk and activates a client program CP acquisition inquiry command described later, the client program CP Software provider Vk
Send a get inquiry message to. The user identification information is automatically added to this message.

The server program SP of the provider Vk receives this, checks the user's qualification, automatically processes it according to the setting of the provider management data VD (Si), and returns it to the user. The processing method at this time can be variously set. For example, return only the summary information / demo program and payment method, return the software with the copyright notice, or return the software after confirming the user with the public key PIN. Or you can.

The client program CP receives this reply and relays it to the user. If the software itself is returned, the client program C
P stores the software Si.V according to the update instruction information in the reply. Further, the client program CP refers to the user management data UD (Uj) and performs necessary translation / combination according to the setting, and
It can also be automatically installed in an area prepared in advance. (Ii) Software update inquiry and update

It is also possible to inquire of the software provider whether there is any subsequent update / improvement of the software currently used by the user and to automatically obtain a new version if the software has been updated as follows. You can easily. The user Uj selects the software name Si whose update is to be checked.
To start the client program CP. The client program CP refers to the user management data UD (Uj), extracts the configuration of the software Si.V currently used by the user, adds the user identification information, and automatically sends the configuration to the provider. Outgoing update inquiry message.

When the server program SP receives this, according to the setting of the provider management data VD (Si),
The user's qualification is checked by looking at the user identification information, and the software update information is returned to the user. For a qualified user, for example, the following reply processing is performed. If the software has not been updated,
Returns a message saying no update. If the software has been updated, the method of updating at the user site and the (minimum) software main body necessary for the update are returned. If the software has been updated or improved on a large scale, a message is sent back from the user recommending that a new version of the software be obtained.

The manner of performing these reply processes can be set by the provider in the provider management data VD (Si). When the client program CP receives the reply from the server program SP, the user program management data UD (Uj) is added to the content of the reply message.
The processing is performed according to the setting of.

For example, when the updated software is returned, the software itself (and additional information) Si.V is first stored in the area designated by the user management data UD (Uj), and The conventional version Si.V is replaced according to the update instruction information in reply and the instruction of the user management data UD (Uj), and if necessary, the new version can be executed by performing translation and combination.

The user enters the user management data UD (Uj
), For example, the old version can be saved for backup for a while, and the old version can be deleted after confirming that the new version can be used without any problem. A function is also provided for automatically reporting whether or not the storing / updating process of the software in the client program CP has been normally performed from the client program CP to the server program SP.

The update inquiry can be started by explicit start by the user, automatic start when the user calls the software,
There is a start by a time designation (for example, every day before dawn, every week, every month, etc.) by a daemon program. The explicit start by the user is a method of starting by inputting a command for starting an update inquiry when the user needs update processing. For example, the user specifies the target software to be updated by a conversational operation. Edit the update inquiry message to make an update inquiry for the target software. The procedure for transmitting the update inquiry is set in the user management data UD (Uj) as a procedure.

According to this method, the user can update the required target software at any time. The activation at the time of calling the software by the user is, for example, a method of automatically starting an update inquiry before executing the target software when the user performs necessary processing using the target software. The processing procedure and the like are set in the user management data UD (Uj) as a procedure in the same manner as described above. According to this method, the user can always use the latest updated version of the target software when using the target software.

When the target software ends abnormally due to a failure / bug, the update inquiry can be started. By doing so, even if there is a bug in the target software, if an updated version in which the bug has been corrected already exists in the software library SL (Si) of the provider's computer, the automatic It becomes possible to obtain and execute target software in which bugs are fixed.

The activation of the update inquiry by the daemon program is a method of periodically activating the update inquiry at an interval selected by the user as a background job such as at night. According to this method, the software inquiry of the user is performed. When the target software is executed as in the case of starting at the time, the user does not have to wait for the update inquiry. (iii) Automatic reporting of failure information at the time of abnormal termination of software If the software Si managed by the client program CP terminates abnormally on the user computer when it is executed, the client program CP is immediately started. The client program detects the cause and situation of the abnormality (for example, a series of higher-level instructions that call the instruction that caused the abnormality), and detects the user management data UD (U
j) Automatically send a failure report message to the provider Vk with (appropriate part of) added.

The server program SP of the provider classifies each software Si.V, records this, and reports it to the developer. Further, a message to the effect that the failure information has been received is returned to the user. Bug fixing work is done manually by the developer. When the developer makes a correction, registers it in the provider's target software library, and sets version management information in the provider management data VD (Si), the updated version is thereafter provided to the user as the latest version. Also, depending on the setting method, the latest version can be released only to a specific or desired user and used for experimental use. (3) Communication between client program and server program, configuration and type of message Client program CP and server program S
Communication with P is performed via a network in the same manner as electronic mail or electronic data exchange EDI. (i) Inbound message: message from client program CP to server program The following configuration is adopted.・ Destination: Provider name Vk at Provider network address ・ Sender: User name Uj at User network address ・ Subject: This software distribution / maintenance system name Command name Software name Si ・ Contents: User identification information, provision User identification information, software identification information, other necessary information different for each command, options, etc. (ii) Downlink message: message from server program SP to client program CP The following configuration is adopted.・ Destination: User name Uj at Network address of user ・ Sender: Provider name Vk at Network address of provider ・ Subject: Name of this software distribution / maintenance system Command name Software name Si ・ Return target: Return message to be returned Identification information ・ Content: User identification information, provider identification information, software identification information, other necessary information that differs for each command, options, etc. (iii) Main message types and functions FIG. 4 shows the correspondence between the main types of downlink messages as responses to the message.

The types of these messages are distinguished by designating them in the command name in the Subject column in the message. (iv) Specific example of the processing command in the system of the present embodiment As a message as described above, in the present embodiment,
The processing command shown in FIG. 5 was used.

In the system of the present invention, the provider basically sends a reply (down) message to an inquiry (up) message from a user, and the main commands correspond almost one-to-one. . In addition to this, there are a reply message of exception processing and an acquisition confirmation message from the user when the software is acquired. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the main commands. As shown in FIG.
Basically, the response is in the form of inquiry (up) → reply (down) → confirmation (up). In the same figure, the command following "/" indicates exception processing.

The sending of information to the user under the initiative of the provider is exceptional, and only limited short messages are allowed. This includes a "Warning" message and a "Notic
e ”message. These messages are also basically handled as exceptions to user inquiries.
It is appropriate as an operation rule to use it for returning warnings and notifications. (4) Inquiry Message Transmission Process on User Computer Next, an embodiment of the inquiry message transmission process on the user computer will be described. (i) Overall Configuration of Processing of Client Program on User Computer The client program CP is placed on the user computer and manages the distribution and update of usually one or more users of a large number of target software. In response to the user's operations such as a new acquisition request and an update inquiry, the user edits the upstream message, transmits it via the network, receives the reply from the server program SP, and performs processing such as installation.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the overall configuration of the above processing, and the processing of the client program will be described with reference to FIGS. In the figure, the left side is the client
The processing by the program is shown, and the right side shows the user processing procedure. Note that the user processing procedure is
User management data UD (Uj) set for each user
By setting the user processing procedure in the user management data UD (Uj) and calling it in the client program, the client program CP of each user can be shared.

In the figure, the client program CP is started on the user computer and is always in a standby state (step S1 in FIG. 7). Upon receiving a user command input, a command input from user software, or a message received from the server program SP via the network, the client program is started (step S2).

When the client program CP is started, the client program CP analyzes the command (or the subject of the received message) field and finds the user name Uj, the command name, and the target software name Si (step S3). The subsequent processing, in particular, the use of the user management data UD (Uj) and the user processing procedure UP is performed for each user and each target software.

Next, the start source of the current client program CP is identified (step S4). When the user is started, the process goes to step S5. When the user software is started, the process goes to step S6. Go to step S9. When the user directly starts up, a message editing screen corresponding to each command is displayed, and the user edits the contents of the message by a conversational operation while calling each transmission processing procedure P1 (step S5).

Each transmission procedure retrieves information necessary for each message, such as an overview inquiry, a new acquisition request, a new service provision request, an update inquiry, and a failure report, and composes the message. At this time, the information of the user management data UD (Uj) is used. When the user's software starts automatically,
The message is automatically edited while calling the transmission processing procedure P1 (step S6).

The automatic activation by the user's software includes activation by the above-described daemon program, activation by an instruction to start execution of the target software, activation by abnormal termination of the target software, and the like. When the inquiry message is prepared by the processing of steps S5 and S6, the client program CP sends the message to the server program SP on the provider's computer via the network (step S7).

Next, the transmission of the message is stored, and the client program CP returns to the standby state (step S8). When a message is received from the network and the client program is started, FIG.
Go to step S9, refer to the message transmission / reception record (recorded in step S7) regarding the user's software, and confirm that it is in a reply waiting state.
Further, it calls the provider confirmation procedure P2 to confirm the message sender (in this case, the provider).

The provider confirmation procedure P2 is one of the user processing procedures, and confirms the provider using the provider's password or the like to protect the user's software. Next, according to the command of the received message,
The user processing procedure P3 of each reply process is called (step S10). In each reply processing procedure, the installation instruction information and the user management data UD in the return message describe the new installation processing and the update installation processing of the software sent in the reply message.
This is performed by referring to the information in (Uj). If the reply is a warning or notice, the message is displayed and stored.

When an automatic report of the processing result is required when the received message is processed, for example, when the installation processing is required, a confirmation message of the processing is given in accordance with the processing result in the reply processing procedure P3. And send the reply from the provider server via the network.
The call is transmitted to the program SP (step S11). The received reply message, the processing result thereof, and the processing result confirmation message are stored, and the client program CP returns to the standby state step S1 (step S12). (ii) Outgoing processing of new acquisition request message Among inquiry messages sent by the user, those that the user himself intentionally processes are called Inform (outline inquiry),
There are four types of messages: WantNew (new acquisition request), WantRenew (new service acquisition request), and Comment (comment).

The processing method of the client program CP when transmitting these messages is performed in the processing shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 through steps S1 to S5, transmission processing procedure P1 and step S7 in FIG. . The processing in the case of a new acquisition request (WantNew) will be described with reference to FIG.

When the user inputs the WantNew command together with the new software name Si, etc., the client
The program is started (Step S2). The client program CP prepares an area of the software name Si in the user management data UD (Uj) of the user Uj (if the outline is queried in advance, the area is already created). This is performed using the user management data (step S3).

The client program CP displays a message acquisition screen for a new acquisition request, and assists the user in inputting / editing a necessary part of the message while calling the transmission processing procedure P1 for the new acquisition request ( Step S5). In the procedure P1 for transmitting a new acquisition request, the user identification information (user name network,
Address, password, etc.), software information (designation of software name, version type, etc.), provider identification information (provider name, provider network address, etc.), post-acquisition processing information (storage directory name, installation processing method) Etc.). If such information has already been stored in the user management data UD (Uj) at the stage of making a summary inquiry or the like, there is no need to re-enter it. Also, new information is stored in the user management data U.
D (Uj).

In step S5, the client program CP transmits a new acquisition request message (WantNew message) created by the procedure P1 for transmitting a new acquisition request to the provider via the network (step S7). Then, the call is recorded, and the client program CP returns to the standby state (step S).
8). (iii) Transmission process of update inquiry message The CheckUpdate message for update inquiry is obtained by performing steps S1 to S7 in FIG.
Transmitted by procedure P1.

Next, the transmission processing of the update inquiry message will be described with reference to FIG. Client program CP
CheckUpd
When the ate command is input, preparation for an update inquiry is started (step S2). This CheckUpdate command
As described above, the user may be conscious of the input, may be input automatically when the target software is started, or may be input at a preset timing by a daemon program (for example, daily early morning, weekly, monthly, etc.). ) May be automatically input.

The client program CP performs the following processing using the appropriate user management data UD (Uj) using the user name Uj and the software name Si as keys (step S3). This client program C
The activation source of P is identified (step S4), and when the user is activated, the process proceeds to step S5, and when the user software is activated, the process proceeds to step S6.

When the user is activated, a message editing screen for update inquiry is displayed, the update inquiry transmission processing procedure P1 is called, and information necessary for message editing is retrieved and displayed. At that time, for example, change of the required version type, change of the installation process information, etc.
The user may correct some of these pieces of information (step S5).

In the update inquiry transmission procedure, the user management data UD (Uj) is referred to, and user identification information (user name, network address, password, etc.) and provider identification information (provider name, provider Software management information (version type, existing version name, existing module configuration, etc.),
Extract information of installation processing information (accommodation directory name, backup instruction, etc.) and prepare to configure CheckUpdate message.

When the CheckUpdate command is automatically started by software, the client program CP calls the update processing transmission processing procedure P1 and automatically sets a CheckUpdate message (step S6). By the processing of step S5 and step S6
When the CheckUpdate message is prepared, the client program CP automatically sends the message to the server program SP on the provider's computer via the network (Step S7).

Next, the transmission of the message is stored, and the client program CP returns to the standby state (step S8). (iv) Automatic transmission processing of a failure report message In the processing shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, step S1 in FIG.
S4, step S6, procedure P1, step S
7. This is performed through step S8.

Next, an automatic transmission process of a failure report message will be described with reference to FIG. If a version Si.V of the target software managed by the client program CP terminates abnormally during its execution, the BugReport command immediately executes the client program C.
It is sent to P (step S2). The client program CP detects the user name and the software name that caused the abnormal termination, and corresponding user management data UD (Uj).
Is used to perform the following processing (step S3).

Since the automatic start is performed, the flow advances from step S4 to step S6 to call the failure report transmission procedure P1 and create a failure report message. The fault report transmission processing procedure P1 analyzes the instruction, the situation that directly caused the abnormal termination, and the (row) of the instruction that called the instruction. Also, the user management data UD (Uj
), User identification information, provider information, and software identification information are extracted from these problem reports (BugR
eport) Summarize the message.

A failure report (BugR
eport) When the message is prepared, the client program CP automatically sends the message to the server program SP on the provider's computer via the network (step S7). Next, the transmission of the message is stored, and the client program CP returns to the standby state (step S8). (5) Processing on the Provider's Computer Next, an example of processing on the provider's computer will be described. (i) Overall Configuration of Processing of Server Program FIGS. 9 and 10 are diagrams showing the overall configuration of processing of the server program.

In the figure, the left side shows the processing by the server program, and the right side shows the provider processing procedure. As described above, the provider processing procedure is set in the provider management data VD (Si) set for each software library, and the provider processing procedure is stored in the provider management data VD.
By setting during (Si) and calling in the server program, the server program SP can be shared.

In the figure, a server program SP placed on a computer of a provider is always started, and client programs C of a large number of users are connected via a network.
It is on standby to receive various inquiry messages sent from P (step S1 in FIG. 9). Upon receiving a message from a certain client program CP via the network (step S2), the server program SP reads the command name and software name by looking at the Subject column of the message. Subsequent processing is performed for each target software (step S3).

The user name and user information are extracted from the header portion of the message, the provider management data VD (Si) for the target software is viewed, and the designated customer confirmation procedure is called there (step S4). ). In the customer qualification confirmation procedure P1, the inquiry source user information is compared with the user information of the provider management data VD (Si) to determine whether the customer is a conventional customer or a new customer. In the case of a conventional customer, the customer information is checked and its qualification is checked.

In the case of a new customer, customer registration is performed and, for example, initial qualification such as access qualification for only summary information is given. Further, it is determined whether the customer is qualified for the command of the received message (step S5). If the user is not qualified, the unqualified person processing procedure P2 is called, and the provider management data VD (S
i) Construct an appropriate reply message, such as refusal, warning, eligibility notification, etc., referring to the specification in i).

In the case of a qualified user, the received message is analyzed and the contents of the request are interpreted (step S
6). Next, a reply response procedure corresponding to the command of the received message is called in accordance with the designation of the provider management data VD (Si) (step S7). Each reply response procedure P3 searches for necessary information in order to respond to each received command, and prepares information for composing a reply message. This processing includes processing of returning summary information, providing new software, providing new services, returning updated software information, and configuring other messages.

Next, a reply message is constructed using the information prepared above. Also, the information items provided to the user are stored in the user history of the provider management data VD (Si) (step S8). The reply message composed in step S8 is replied to the inquiry source user via the network (step S9). And the server
The program returns to the standby state (Step S10). (ii) Reply process for new acquisition request Server program S for reply process for new acquisition request
The processing in P basically follows the processing shown in FIGS. Among them, only the characteristic portions in the case of a new acquisition request will be described as follows.

In the customer qualification confirmation procedure P1 of FIG. 9, only when the requesting user is a user who has gone through a proper (purchase / acquisition) procedure, it is determined that the user is qualified.
In the unqualified person processing procedure P2, a reply is created in the form of a Notice message using a regular procedure for obtaining a new one. In the response response processing procedure P3 for a new acquisition request in FIG. 10, the management data for the provider VD (Si) is used by using the user identification information in the request message.
, The version type Si.V to be provided is determined. Then, the latest version Si.
Obtain a set of modules Mm.1 that make up V.1. Also, it constitutes instruction information on how to install on the user computer.

In step S8, a NewInstall message for reply is constructed using the information in the reply response processing procedure P3. (iii) Reply processing for update inquiry Basically, the processing shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is followed. Among them, only the characteristic portions in the case of the update inquiry will be described as follows.

In the customer qualification confirmation procedure P1 of FIG. 9, the requesting user is a partner who has provided the software legally, and is determined to be a qualified person only when the provision conditions (period, etc.) are still valid. I do. In the unqualified person processing procedure P2, for example, the following measures are taken. (a) When the requester has not obtained the software itself: The procedure for new acquisition is returned as a Notice message. (b) When the qualification period has expired after the client obtained it through the regular procedure: The procedure for renewing the qualification is returned as a Notice message. (c) If the client obtains software illegally and illegally: Reply a Warning message to warn the user.

The procedure P3 for replying to the update inquiry refers to the setting of the management data VD (Si) for the provider by using the user identification information in the request message, and determines the version type Si.V 'to be provided. , The latest version Si.V'.1 'for that version type is determined. (a) If this is the same as the user's current version Si.V.1,
No update is required. Reply NoUpdate. (b) If the same version type has been updated,
Search and return module deletion / addition instruction information for updating the user's current version Si.V.1 to the latest version Si.V.1 ', and the module Mm.1' group required for addition Specify for (c) If the provider determines that it is desirable to switch to a version type Si.V 'that includes a new service and is different from the user's existing version type Si.V, the information of the new version is notified by a Notice message. Tell

In step S8, a reply message is formed, and information on the version sent to the user is stored in the individual user information of the provider management data VD (Si). (iv) Failure Report Message Receiving Processing Basically, the processing follows the processing shown in FIGS. Among them, only the characteristic portions in the case of the failure report message receiving process will be described as follows.

In the response report processing procedure P3 for the failure report, first, the contents of the failure report are classified and analyzed, stored in the failure report database according to the specification of the provider management data VD (Si), and transmitted to the developer. Give a summary. In addition, a BugAck message is returned to the user who sent the report, indicating that the failure report has been received. (6) Processing of return message in user computer The overall configuration of the processing of the client program CP on the user computer is as shown in FIGS.

When the client program CP sends various inquiry messages (see (4) (ii) to (iV)), the server program SP responds ([5) (i) to (5).
(Refer to (iV)], and a reply message is returned.
The client program CP executes step S1 in FIG.
-S4 and steps S9-S11 in FIG. 8 and the processing of the procedures P2 and P3, these reply messages are received, the acquisition software is installed, and the warning
Performs processing such as displaying and storing g / Notice messages. (i) Processing for Installing Newly Obtained Software The processing for receiving and installing the reply of the new software is as follows according to the processing shown in FIGS.

At step S2 in FIG. 7, the client program CP receives a NewInstall message from the server program SP via the network. The client program CP reads the user name Uj from the destination of the message and the software name from the Subject column, and performs the subsequent processing using the corresponding user management data UD (Uj) (step S3).

In this case, since the data is received from the network, the flow advances to step S9 (step S4). In step S9, the user checks the message transmission / reception record with this software, and requests new acquisition (WantN
ew) Confirm that it is in the standby state after sending the message. Further, it calls the provider confirmation procedure P2 to confirm that the message is from a valid provider. In other words, the provider confirmation procedure P2 confirms that the source of the reply message is the legitimate provider Vk recorded in the user management data UD (Uj) by collating the personal identification number or the like.

Next, referring to the user management data UD (Uj), a reply processing procedure P for the NewInstall command is performed.
Call 3 (step S10). The procedure for installing the newly acquired software of the reply processing procedure P3 performs the installation processing on the user computer by using the designation of the user management data UD (Uj) and the installation instruction information from the provider. If it is determined to be dangerous, the contents of the reply message are stored only as data, and installation for preparation for execution is not performed. Then, whether the processing result is normal or trouble has occurred is monitored.

In step S11, the client program CP immediately sends a message confirming the result of the installation process to the server program SP. An InstallAck message is sent if the installation process was successful and if the installation was successful, and if the installation process failed, InstallTroub
Send a le message.

At step S12, the received reply message and the transmitted confirmation message are recorded, and the client program CP returns to the standby state S1. Although a new acquisition request message was issued, the reply was NewInstall
If the message is not a message but a Notice message, the client program CP performs processing as described in (iii) below. (ii) When receiving the updated software information and performing the installation process The process in this case is the same as the above (i), with the following differences.

In step S2 of FIG. 7, the client program CP executes the Update
Receive a message. In step S9, the message transmission / reception record is checked, and an update inquiry (CheckUpdat
e) Confirm that the message is waiting after sending the message and that the message is from a valid provider.

The update procedure is called as the reply procedure P3. The update procedure removes unnecessary modules on the user computer and stores additional modules from the received message by using the designation of the user management data UD (Uj) and the update instruction information from the provider. Depending on the setting of the user management data, a module that is not required for updating may be saved as a backup without actually being deleted, so that the old version and the new version can be used in parallel.

Further, installation for execution preparation is performed. If it is determined to be dangerous, installation is avoided. It is monitored whether the result of the replacement process and the installation process of these updated versions is normal or trouble has occurred. In step S11, a confirmation message of the result of the update replacement and installation processing is immediately transmitted to the server program SP. If the replacement and installation processes have been performed normally and the storage has been performed anyway, an InstallAck message is sent. If a trouble occurs, an InstallTrouble message is sent.

It should be noted that, in response to the update inquiry message,
If a date message is returned, step S
10, nothing is performed in procedure P3 and step S11.
In step S12, only the reply information is recorded. (iii) Notice message processing Notice messages from the provider are used as exceptional processing for various inquiries (new acquisition request, new service acquisition request, update inquiry, comment, failure report, etc.) for the purpose of "notification". Comes replied. In this case, the client program CP performs the following processing.

At step S2, the client program CP receives a Notice command from the network. In step S3, the user name, the software name, the message name, the subject field and the in-reply-to field are entered.
And read referral inquiry messages. The process goes from step S4 to step S9, and in the provider confirmation procedure P2,
Check with the record of the sent / received message and confirm that it is a reply message from a valid provider.

In step S10, the type of the reference inquiry message is specified, and the notice message reply processing procedure P3 is called. The reply processing procedure P3 performs processing such as displaying the contents of the Notice message to the user, copying it to the user's mailbox, storing and storing the contents in accordance with the instruction of the user management data UD (Uj).

Further, the contents of the Notice message are read, and the action is taken for the reference inquiry message in the waiting state. For example, in the state of waiting for a reply to the WantNew and WantRenew messages, this is resolved. No confirmation message is required in steps S11 and S12. The reply is recorded, and the process returns to the standby state S1. (7) Operation of Software Distribution / Maintenance System The software distribution / maintenance system of the present embodiment described above can be applied to distribution / maintenance of various software. The operation for maintenance will be described. (i) Operation of application software for software products When the software distribution and maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to distribution and maintenance of software products of application software, the following operation forms (particularly, (How to set the provider management data VD (Si) and the user management data UD (Uj)). (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Inquiry of summary → Everyone is taught summary information and purchase procedure. In other words, guide the contract for acquisition and use (including financial relations). Request for new acquisition → After completing the purchase procedure, give the user identification code and send the new software only to customers with the same PIN. New service acquisition request → New service purchase procedure completed, only for customers whose passwords match.

Update inquiry → Only for regular customers. Warning message for fraudulent customers. (b) The provider sets the version type as follows. Dependency on user model: Request the model and memory size in the user identification information and send the appropriate version type. Software environment dependency: Tells the user the dependency on the OS type, language used, etc., and asks the user to select an appropriate version type.

Stable / Latest version: Ask the user to select. (c) Regarding the setting of the installation process on the user computer, the following are standardized. Install based on the provider's installation instruction information. The old version is kept for backup and can be used in parallel with the updated version for a certain period of time. (ii) Operation for Large Computer Operating System When the software distribution and maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to distribution and maintenance of the operating system of large computer, Conceivable. (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Summary inquiry → Sends summary information to anyone and informs them of the procedure of the purchase contract. All other inquiries → Only contract customers whose passwords match. (b) The version type is determined by a meeting between the provider and the user at the time of contract. (c) Regarding the setting of the installation process on the user computer, the following are standardized. The software sent by the message from the provider is stored only in the secondary storage, and does not automatically start the installation process.
The installation process is separately performed by the user based on the installation information from the provider and based on a sufficient explanation from the provider. (iii) Operation for distribution of software as shareware When the software distribution and maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to distribution and maintenance of software as shareware, the following operation forms are used. Conceivable. (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Inquiry of summary → Everyone is taught summary information and how to obtain it. In the summary information, specify that the target software is shareware, and request the fixing user to provide a support fund for development and improvement. New acquisition request → Send to anyone and request donation after trial as described above.

New service acquisition request, update inquiry → Send to registered users to anyone. Request the support fund again. (b) Version type is the same as (7) (i) above. (c) The setting of the installation process on the user computer is the same as the above (7) (i). (iv) Operation for distribution of software as freeware When the software distribution and maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to distribution and maintenance of software as freeware, the following operation modes are used. Conceivable. (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Inquiry of summary → Everyone is taught summary information and how to obtain it. In the summary information, specify that the software is freeware and allow it to be provided to other users without losing the copyright notice. Request for new acquisition → Send to anyone and specify as above.

New service acquisition request, update inquiry → Send to registered users to anyone. Specified as above. (b) Version type is the same as (7) (i) above. (c) The setting of the installation process on the user computer is the same as the above (7) (i). (v) Operation for distribution of academic prototype software When the software distribution and maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to distribution and maintenance of academic prototype software, the following operation forms are conceivable. . (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Inquiry of summary → Everyone is taught summary information and how to obtain it. It clearly states to the user that the subject software is academic software and will be provided widely subject to respect for copyright. Request for new acquisition → Send to anyone and inform them of copyright handling, prohibition of commercial use, request for trial report, etc. as described above.

Request for new service acquisition, update inquiry → Send to registered users to anyone. (b) Version type is the same as (7) (i) above. (c) The setting of the installation process on the user computer is the same as the above (7) (i). (vi) Operation for intra-organization software distribution within the department If the software distribution / maintenance system described in the above embodiment is applied to intra-organization software distribution / maintenance, the following operation modes will be used. Conceivable. (a) The provider sets the user's qualification as follows.

Inquiry of summary → Only organization members teach registered qualifications to anyone about summary information and how to obtain it. In it, specify that "Prohibition, use, presentation, etc. to users outside the range is prohibited" and send it. Request for new acquisition → Only the organization members will be sent to anyone who is registered and qualified, and inform the confidentiality as described above.

Request for new service, inquiry for update → Send to registered users to anyone. Inform unregistered users how to register. (b) Version type is the same as (7) (i) above. (c) The setting of the installation process on the user computer is the same as the above (7) (i).

[0165]

As described above, the software distribution / maintenance system of the present invention solves the above-mentioned problems, and is suitable for worldwide software provision or software distribution using computers and software. A unified technical framework can be established.

That is, according to the present invention, many and various software providers can participate, many and various software users can participate, and many and various software users can use the software. , A system having a function of enabling a user to quickly and appropriately obtain and use software created and updated by a software provider.

In particular, the following effects can be obtained by the invention of each claim of the present invention. (1) Many and various software providers and users can distribute many and various target software via a network, and can quickly and appropriately distribute software created and updated by software providers. Can be obtained and used.

(2) When the target software terminates abnormally during its execution, the first processing means sends a failure report message to the provider of the software via a network and transmits the message to the provider. As a result, the software provider can immediately recognize that a software failure has occurred, and can promptly deal with the software failure.

(3) Users of the computers connected to the network can quickly and appropriately obtain software of other users.

(4) Since the user management data is placed on each user computer 1, the first processing means can be shared for each user, and various settings can be made for each user. it can. Also, since the provider management data is placed on each provider computer, the second processing means can be shared for each software library, and various settings can be made by the provider.

(5) In particular, by allowing the user to set the processing method as a procedure in the user management data, the processing method can be variously set for each user. For example, by enabling the specification of the provider confirmation procedure, the method of the provider confirmation processing can be variously set for each user. Also, by allowing the provider to set the processing method as a procedure, the provider can set the processing method in various ways.
For example, by making it possible to specify a user confirmation procedure, the provider can variously set the method of the provider confirmation processing. Further, in the processing of the user confirmation procedure, the user qualification may be determined using a commercial relationship such as a contract relationship for the target software, a monetary payment relationship for the target software, or a monetary payment relationship for a new service of the target software. This makes it possible to deal with the distribution of various software such as product software. Also, when processing the user confirmation procedure, the user qualification is determined using the user's affiliation information such as the organization to which the user belongs or the position of the user, and the provision and distribution of the target software is limited to a specific range of users. By doing so, it is possible to cope with the distribution of various software such as the distribution of software used in an organization. Furthermore, if a password is used to confirm the user in the processing of the user confirmation procedure, it is possible to prevent the distribution of software to unqualified users when distributing product software or software used in an organization. be able to.

As described above, the software distribution management system of the present invention is a unified technical framework that can be used by a very wide range of software / providers / users, and utilizes a communication network between computers. It will be understood from the above description that the user can promptly and appropriately obtain and use the software created and updated by the software provider at any time. In particular, if international standardization is carried out in the future, the present invention is expected to bring about a revolutionary change in software distribution.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a principle diagram of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a message according to the embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an upstream message and a downstream message according to the embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a processing command according to the embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between main commands according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of processing of a client program.

FIG. 8 is a diagram (continued) showing the overall configuration of the processing of the client program.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of processing of a server program.

FIG. 10 is a diagram (continued) showing the overall configuration of the processing of the server program.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 11, 12, 13 User computer 2, 21 Communication network 3, 31, 32 Provider computer U1, U2, U3, Uj User V1, V2, Vk Provider S1, S2, Si Target software SU1, SU2, SUj Target software group SL1, SL2, SLj, SL (Si) software
Library S1. V, S1. V ', Si. V Target software version Si. V. l Applicable software version (with version number) Ma. 1, Mm. n Applicable software module SP server program CP client
Program UD1, UD2, UDj, UD (Uj) User management data VD1, VD2, VDi, VD (Si) Provider management data

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of the front page (56) References JP-A-2-14325 (JP, A) JP-A-2-27459 (JP, A) JP-A-2-71348 (JP, A) JP-A-2- 302827 (JP, A) JP-A-5-210507 (JP, A) JP-A-3-171363 (JP, A) JP-A-2-238550 (JP, A) JP-A-2-143353 (JP, A) (58) Field surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G06F 13/00 G06F 9/445 G06F 15/16 167 G06F 11/00

Claims (8)

(57) [Claims] 1. A large number of users (U1, U1) using various kinds of target software to be distributed, managed, and maintained.
..) and a number of software providers (V1, V2, ..) that provide the above target software for managing the distribution of the above target software via the computer network (2). In a software distribution / maintenance system that utilizes a network, (a) users (U1, U1
Target software group (SU1, SU.SU)
2, ..), first processing means (CP) for managing the target software group (SU1, SU2, ..), and (b) placed on the computer (3) of each software provider,
Software libraries for providers (SL1, SL2, ..)
And second processing means (SP) for providing services related to the software library group (SL1, SL2, ..), and (c) a network connecting each user computer (1) and each provider computer (3). (D) each of the first processing means (CP) performs one of the target software in response to an instruction of a user (U1, U2, ..) or an instruction of a user setting program. Network distribution and / or maintenance request messages for the target software
(2) through the second processing means of the target software
(SP), receives a reply message from the second processing means (SP), and distributes and / or distributes the target software according to the contents of the reply and the settings of the users (U1, U2,...). or a function of performing processing for maintenance, management (e) User chromatography the computer (1) on the first processing means (CP)
Target software that terminates abnormally during its execution
And analyze the situation that caused the abnormality
And sends the failure report via the network (2) to the provider (V
1, V2, ..) for automatic transmission to the second processing means (SP) . (F) Each second processing means (SP) is provided with an arbitrary first processing means.
When the above message from (CP) is received, the provider (V1, V2, ..) is set for the target software specified in the message according to the content of the received message and the settings of the provider (V1, V2, ...)
V2, ..) managed software library (SL1, SL
2, ..) and distribute and / or distribute the above Software
Or create a reply message maintenance request, through the network (2), a function of transmitting a reply message to the originator of the first processing means of the corresponding message (CP), the interference from the user computer (1) Receive the report and
With a function to notify the elephant software providers (V1, V2, ..)
Software distribution and maintenance systems that utilize the network, characterized in that is. 2. A large number of users (U1, U1, U2,
..) and a number of software providers (V1, V2, ..) that provide the above target software for managing the distribution of the above target software via the computer network (2). In a software distribution and maintenance system that utilizes a network, (a) each user (U1,
U2, ..) or set for each user group
Furthermore, each user (U1,
U2, ..) or the user corresponding to each user group
User identification information and each target software used by each user (U1, U2, ..)
Software management information and software
Hardware configuration information and message processing method designation information.
User data (UD1, UD2, ..) and users (U1, U2
Target software group (SU1, SU.SU)
(2 ...), the first processing means (CP) for managing the target software group (SU1, SU2, ..), and (b) placed on the computer (3) of each software provider.
Set for each software library (SL1, SL2, ..)
Provider identification information, software management information, and software
Software configuration information and message processing method specification information
Provider management data including customer information and fault history information.
(VD1, VD2, ..) , a software library group for the provider (SL1, SL2, ..), and a second software library group (SL1, SL2, ..) Processing means
And (SP), (c) the user computer (1) and the provider computer (3) and a network (2) connecting, (d) the first processing means (CP) is, for the user Management day
With reference to the data (UD1, UD2, ..), the distribution and / or distribution of the target software for one target software in response to the instruction of the user (U1, U2,. Network of maintenance request message (2)
Through the second processing means (SP) of the target software
, And receives a reply message from the second processing means (SP), and distributes and / or maintains the target software according to the contents of the reply and the settings of the users (U1, U2,...). (E) each second processing means (SP) is provided with an optional first processing means
Upon receiving the message from the (CP), the specified target software in the message, according to the setting contents with the provider of the received message (V1, V2, ..), each Sofutou
For providers set for each software library (SL1, SL2, ..)
Refer to the management data (VD1, VD2, ..) and the software library (SL1, SL2, ..) managed by the provider (V1, V2, ..) to request distribution and / or maintenance of the above-mentioned target software Software distribution utilizing a network characterized by having a function of transmitting a reply message to the first processing means (CP) of the source of the message via the network (2). Maintenance system. 3. A large number of users (U1, U1, U2, U3,
2, ..) and a number of software providers (V1, V2, ..) that provide the above-mentioned target software to manage the distribution of the above-mentioned target software via a computer network (2). In a software distribution and maintenance method using a network, the target software groups (SU1, SU2, ..) placed on each user computer (1) and used by users (U1, U2, ..) A first processing means (CP) for managing the target software group (SU1, SU2, ..), and a software library (SL1, SL2, etc.) for the provider placed on each software provider computer (3) ..), a second processing means (SP) for providing services related to the above software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..), and a network connecting each user computer (1) and each provider computer (3). (A) Each user (U1, U2, ..) is a command by the user (U1, U2, ..) on the user computer (1). By the force, or,
The first processing means (CP) is started by a command from a user-set program, and (b) a message of distribution and / or maintenance request of the target software is transmitted via the network (2) for one target software. The second of the target software
(C) On the provider computer (3) of the target software,
The second processing means (SP) receives the message from the first processing means (CP). (D) For the target software specified by the message, the content of the received message and the provider (V1, V2, According to the settings of (..), refer to the software library (SL1, SL2, ..) managed by the provider (V1, V2, ..) and create a reply message for distribution and / or maintenance of the above software. Sends the reply message to the first processing means (CP) of the source of the message via the network (2), and (e) transmits the message (U1, U2, ..) On the computer, the first processing means (CP) is used by the second processing means (S
It receives the reply message from the P), in accordance with the reply content and user (U1, U2, ..) setting, performs the processing for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software, the user computer (1) The task managed by the first processing means (CP) above
The target software terminated abnormally during its execution
When the first processing means (CP) detects an abnormality,
Analysis of the situation that caused the
Network provider (Vk) via the network (2)
And the second processing means (SP) of the provider (Vk) connects to the network (2).
Received the above failure report message to the provider (Vk)
A software distribution and maintenance method using a network characterized by communication . 4. A large number of users (U1, U1, U2, U3,
2, ..) and a number of software providers (V1, V2, ..) that provide the above-mentioned target software to manage the distribution of the above-mentioned target software via a computer network (2). In the software distribution and maintenance method using the network, each user (U1, U1 ) placed on each user computer (1)
2, ..) or set for each user group,
Furthermore, each user (U1,
U2, ..) or the user corresponding to each user group
User identification information and each target software used by each user (U1, U2, ..)
Software management information and software
Hardware configuration information and message processing method designation information.
User data (UD1, UD2, ..) and users (U1, U2
Target software group (SU1, SU.SU)
2, a ..), the target software group (SU1, SU2, ...) and first processing means for managing (CP), placed on each software provider computer (3), each soft
Provision set for each software library (SL1, SL2, ..)
User identification information, software management information, and software
Configuration information, message processing method designation information, and customer information
And provider management data (VD1, VD1
2, ..) and a software library for the provider (SL1, SL
2, ..) and the above software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..)
Using a second processing means (SP) for providing services related to the above, and a network (2) connecting each user computer (1) and each provider computer (3). (A) Each user (U1, U2,. .) Is input by the user (U1, U2, ..) on the user computer (1), or
The first processing means (CP) is activated by the command activation from the user setting program, and (b) the user management data (UD1, UD2, ..) is referred to.
Then, for one target software, a message of distribution and / or maintenance request of the target software is transmitted to the second processing means (SP) of the target software via the network (2). On the software provider computer (3),
The second processing means (SP) receives the message from the first processing means (CP). (D) For the target software specified by the message, the content of the received message and the provider (V1, V2, ..) settings for each software library (SL1, SL2, ..)
The set provider management data (VD1, VD2, ..) and the provider
(V1, V2, ..) managed software library (SL1, S
L2, ..) and distribute and / or distribute the above Software
Or create a reply message for the maintenance request and send it to the network
(2) The above reply message is transmitted to the first processing means (CP) of the source of the corresponding message via (2). (E) On the computer of the user (U1, U2, ..) of the source of the message Then, the first processing means (CP) is connected to the second processing means (S
P) receiving a reply message from P) and performing a process for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software according to the contents of the reply and the settings of the users (U1, U2, ..) Software distribution utilizing
Maintenance method. 5. Various types of distribution / management / maintenance targets
Many users using the target software (U1, U
2, ..) and many
Software providers (V1, V2, ..)
(2) connected to each software provider
Software library for the provider placed on the machine (3)
Group (SL1, SL2, ..) and the above software library group
User computer that receives services related to (SL1, SL2, ..)
(1) The user computer (1) is used by the user (U1, U2, ..).
Target software group (SU1, SU2, ..)
First processing for managing the target software group (SU1, SU2, ..)
Means (CP), the first processing means (CP) comprises: (b) a user (U1, U2, ..)
Per target software,
Request for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software
Message via the network (2)
Software providers that provide software-related services
The information is transmitted to the second processing means (SP) of the provider's computer (3), and the software provider's computer is controlled by the provider (V1, V2, ..)
Software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..)
The target software specified in the above message.
And set the contents of the above message and the provider (V1, V2, ..)
Create a reply message according to the reply message
Is sent to the first processing means (CP), and the reply message
Is received and the contents of the reply and the settings of the user (U1, U2, ..) are received.
Therefore, distribution and / or protection of the above-mentioned target software
A function for performing a process for protecting, management (c) first processing means on the user computer (1) (CP)
Target software that terminates abnormally during its execution
And analyze the situation that caused the abnormality
And sends the failure report via the network (2) to the provider (V
1, V2, ..) to automatically send to the second processing means (SP)
Software using network characterized by having
User computer for ware distribution and maintenance. 6. Various types of distribution / management / maintenance targets
Many users using the target software (U1, U
2, ..) and many
Software providers (V1, V2, ..)
Connected to each user computer via software (2)
Provider software placed on the software provider's computer (3)
Software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..) and the above software
Provides services related to libraries and libraries (SL1, SL2, ..)
A software provider of the computer to, (i) the software provider of the computer (3), for the provider
Software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..) and the above software
Services related to software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..)
And a second processing means (SP) for performing
(SP): (b) From the user computer, the user (U1, U2, ..)
Is a single target according to the instructions of the program set by the user.
Distribution and distribution of the Software.
And / or receive a maintenance request message,
For the target software specified in the message,
According to the content of the message and the settings of the provider (V1, V2, ..),
Software libraries (S) managed by providers (V1, V2, ..)
L1, SL2, ..)
And / or create a reply message for maintenance
Via work (2), the first source of the message
A function to send a reply message to the processing means (CP); and (c) any target software managed by the user computer (1).
If the software terminates abnormally during execution,
Notification via the network (2), and
Function to communicate to the software provider (V1, V2, ..)
Software distribution utilizing networks characterized by
・ Computer for software provider for maintenance. 7. Various types of distribution / management / maintenance targets
Many users using the target software (U1, U
2, ..) and many
Software providers (V1, V2, ..)
(2) connected to each software provider
Software library for the provider placed on the machine (3)
Group (SL1, SL2, ..) and the above software library group
User computer that receives services related to (SL1, SL2, ..)
(1) where (a) the user computer (1) is a user computer (U1, U2, ..)
Is set for each user group,
It is set for each software and each user (U1, U2, ..), if
Or user identification information corresponding to each user group
And each target software used by each user (U1, U2, ..)
Management information and software configuration corresponding to
For users including information and message processing method designation information
Management data (UD1, UD2, ..) and user (U1, U2, ..)
Software group (SU1, SU2, ..)
First processing means for managing software groups (SU1, SU2, ..)
(CP), and the first processing means (CP) refers to (b) the user management data (UD1, UD2, ..).
User's (U1, U2, ..)
In response to the instructions of the
Request for distribution and / or maintenance of the target software
Message via the network (2)
Send to the software provider's computer , and the software provider's computer specifies in the above message
Of the received target software in the received message
Each software according to the contents and the setting of the provider (V1, V2, ..)
・ Set for each library (SL1, SL2, ..) and provide provider identification information
Information, software management information, and software configuration information
, Message processing method specification information, customer information, failure
Provider management data (VD1, VD2, ..) including history information,
Software libraries managed by providers (V1, V2, ..)
(SL1, SL2, ..)
And / or create a reply message for the maintenance
Via the network (2), the first
When sending to the processing means (CP), said first processing means (CP) is, receives the reply message
According to the contents of the reply and the settings of the user (U1, U2, ..).
Te, distribution and / or maintenance of the target software
Network-based software that has the function of performing processing for
User computer for distribution and maintenance. 8. Various types of distribution / management / maintenance targets
Many users using the target software (U1, U
2, ..) and many
Software providers (V1, V2, ..)
Connected to each user computer via software (2)
Provider software placed on the software provider's computer (3)
Software libraries (SL1, SL2, ..) and the above software
Provides services related to libraries and libraries (SL1, SL2, ..)
A software provider of the computer to, (i) the software provider of the computer (3), each Sofutou
Software library (SL1, SL2, ..)
Separate information, software management information, and software configuration
Information, message processing method designation information, customer information,
Provider management data (VD1, VD2, ..) including failure history information
And software libraries for providers (SL1, SL
2, ..) and the above software libraries (SL1, SL
(2 ..) is provided with a second processing means (SP)
The second processing means (SP) comprises: (b) the user computer is configured to execute each user (U1, U2, ..) or
Is set for each user group, and
Software, each user (U1, U2, ..) or
Is the user identification information corresponding to each user group,
For each target software used by each user (U1, U2, ..)
Software management information and software configuration information
Management including user and message processing method designation information
Refer to the data (UD1, UD2, ..) and specify the user (U1, U2, ..)
One or more according to the instructions of the program
About the target software of
Network and / or maintenance request messages
(2) through the second processing means of the target software
(SP), the above message is received, and the pair specified in the message is received.
About the elephant software, the content and provision of the received message
Software (V1, V2, ..)
Rariary (SL1, SL2, ..) provider management data (V
D1, VD2, ..) and the software managed by the provider (V1, V2, ..)
Software (SL1, SL2, ..)
Reply message for software distribution and / or maintenance request
And create the corresponding message via the network (2).
To send a reply message to the user computer of the sender
Software utilizing a network characterized by
Software provider calculations for software distribution and maintenance
Machine.