Abstract: A portal server presents an HTML page that comprises a plurality of modules. Each module represents a network resource that can be accessed by a user through the portal. The portal server includes an administration interface that enables an administrator to select from various layout styles. A variety of modifications can be done to the portal without requiring programming skills. An updateable subsystem class is configured to instantiate an update subsystem object. The update subsystem object is operable to select an updated implementation of module from a set of update servers. An appropriate update server is selected from a set of update servers based on host identification information of a site hosting the portal including the module.

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 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.