Abstract: A system and method for remotely connecting client computers to a communication network such as the Internet by way of a server system handling a plurality of client computers and having the capability of dynamically providing network connections to the client computers, separately billing usage time and tracking usage and preferably updating access software on the client computers. A hot access port is provided for client system access in which a welcome signal is pushed from the server system to the access port. After a connection is made between the client system and the access port, the client system receives the welcome signal.

Abstract: A computer network communication system collects messages from multiple electronic sources comprising network service providers and presents them to a system user in a common format that is selectable by the user. The system receives charge account information from the user and thereby recoups costs associated with providing the computer network communication access. Charge account and associated identification information for a user are stored at a central control site, along with a user's preferred display settings. The central control site is connected to an interconnected computer network and to multiple remote sites comprising computer terminals that communicate with the central control site over the computer network. The remote user sites also are capable of direct communication with network service providers independently of the central control site over conventional telephone line connections.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely connecting client computers to a communication network such as the Internet by way of a server system handling a plurality of client computers and having the capability of dynamically providing network connections to the client computers, separately billing usage time and tracking usage and preferably updating access software on the client computers.