Abstract: A secure content delivery system which is particularly useful for network distribution of electronic books includes a reader capable of storing encrypted text files downloaded from a content server such as a publisher's server. The system includes software processes operating over the network to execute purchase, authentication and downloading aspects of a transaction.

Abstract: A delivery system for managing security keys uses three key pairs to establish, register, move and revoke rights in a device to view protected information. The first and second key pairs cooperate to establish a secure certificate containing a device public and private key, and the pairs of keys are manipulated to install the appropriate keys in the device and the associated authentication server without ever exposing the keys. Thereafter, in the event of a need to authorize a new device to view content associated with a prior, authorized device, the key pairs are used to revoke the rights of an old device and establish identical viewing rights in the new device.

Abstract: A method of maintaining databases in synchronism with software applications which support the databases in relation to installations includes obtaining a table schema employable by a database supported by a version of a software application. Table schema implemented by the database is synchronized to conform with the table schema employable by the database. The table schema implemented by the database is synchronized in association with an installation of the version of the software application. The table schema employable by the database is stored in a configuration file. The file is provided in a markup language including database representation table data associated with the version of the software application.

Abstract: A portal server presents an HTML page that comprises a plurality of modules that are formatted in a predetermined layout. Each module represents a network resource that can be accessed by a user through the portal. Some of the modules can be user-selectable, whereas others may be mandatory elements of the portal. Similarly, some aspects of the layout may be user-controllable, while others are fixed. The modular nature of the portal enables the various resources to be readily and independently updated by the entities who provide them, without affecting other features of the portal. The portal server includes an administration interface that enables an administrator to select from various layout styles, as well as control access to site information and services. A variety of customizations can be done to the portal without requiring programming skills. As a result, individual businesses and other entities can exercise complete ownership of their portals, from a hosting, branding and design perspective.

Abstract: A delivery system for managing security keys uses three key pairs to establish, register, move and revoke rights in a device to view protected information. The first and second key pairs cooperate to establish a secure certificate containing a device public and private key, and the pairs of keys are manipulated to install the appropriate keys in the device and the associated authentication server without ever exposing the keys. Thereafter, in the event of a need to authorize a new device to view content associated with a prior, authorized device, the key pairs are used to revoke the rights of an old device and establish identical viewing rights in the new device.

Abstract: A portal server presents an HTML page that comprises a plurality of modules that are formatted in a predetermined layout. Each module represents a network resource that can be accessed by a user through the portal. Some of the modules can be user-selectable, whereas others may be mandatory elements of the portal. Similarly, some aspects of the layout may be user-controllable, while others are fixed. The modular nature of the portal enables the various resources to be readily and independently updated by the entities who provide them, without affecting other features of the portal. The portal server includes an administration interface that enables an administrator to select from various layout styles, as well as control access to site information and services. A variety of customizations can be done to the portal without requiring programming skills. As a result, individual businesses and other entities can exercise complete ownership of their portals, from a hosting, branding and design perspective.

Abstract: A secure content delivery system which is particularly useful for network distribution of electronic books includes a reader capable of storing encrypted text files downloaded from a content server such as a publisher's server. The system includes software processes operating over the network to execute purchase, authentication and downloading aspects of a transaction.