Abstract: A flexible and hierarchical user interface, defined using a data definition language, such as the extensible Markup Language (XML), is disclosed. In one embodiment, such an interface is defined by at least one file in the data definition language. A base file defines a basic look and behavior of the interface. The file also includes data, such as multimedia data, for access via the interface. One or more extension files modify the basic look and behavior of the interface as initially defined by the base file. In one particular embodiment, the interface includes a number of components organized into a number of layers. Each layer has a view state that is changeably selectable between visible and hidden.

Abstract: Using a user-known and personally valuable key for encryption and decryption of information is disclosed. The information can be multimedia information, such as audio, music, video, image and other types of such information, like text information. The key can in varying embodiments be a combination of one or more of a user's credit card number, social security number, bank account number, and driver's license number, as well as other information that is user-known and personally valuable to the user.

Abstract: Encryption of a key using another key that is unique and particular to a given client is disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method determines a first key that is unique and particular to the client, without user intervention. In varying embodiments, this key can be one or more of: a processor identifier, a network card address, an IP address, a checksum of a component, a serial number of a hard disk drive, a number of cylinders of a hard disk drive, and a user name in a registry file. At least a second key that provides access to information, such as multimedia information, is encrypted with this first key. The second key as encrypted with the first key may be stored on a storage.