Abstract: A network has a naming service with a storage device for maintaining names of objects and attributes relating to those objects. The attributes each have a numerical identification in an attribute space. The attribute space has a predetermined block of undefined attributes divided into groups, each of which has a different predefined combination of access protections relating to different categories of users and different types of access. When a new attribute is defined, it can be associated with one of the undefined attributes in the group having a desired combination access protection.

Abstract: An on-line directory has a large number of records that are publicly accessible through a web site. The directory has a registration system for users. Registered users can make edits to their listings and obtain perform other services.

Abstract: A naming service maintains lists of names for receiving messages, with the names having a defined format portion for routing messages in the network. At least some names have additional routing information that is passed to another server or service for routing the messages externally, such as with remote e-mail or facsimile transmission.

Abstract: A directory service allows a user to receive email messages from senders without requiring the user to reveal his/her email address. The directory service maintains users' email addresses but allows users to restrict the display of their email addresses. The directory service can cause a message to be sent from a sender to a recipient without revealing the recipient's email address.

Abstract: A rule based electronic messaging system with a facility for automatically running a user's rules under system control without need for user intervention or attendance, having a feedback mechanism which reports status relating to users automatically processed. System status reporting or feedback can be used for workflow administration or routing. A controller utility accesses a user-list-file with the user name of every "user" whose messages are to be automatically, periodically processed. Upon accessing the user-list-file, a user name is selected and that user's copy of the mail messaging facility is started. The controller runs that user's rules against that user's messages and effects processing of the messages accordingly. Status information is reported and rules can be invoked as a function of the status reporting. A dedicated rule server can be implemented wherein the feedback information is used for work flow administration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring electrical signals within a system bus to compile statistics regarding the use of the bus by each of a plurality of circuit boards. The apparatus includes a trace memory for storing samples of the bus's electrical signals. A processor analyzes the samples to detect bus cycles, determines which of the circuit boards initiated the bus cycles, and prepares statistics regarding the use of the system bus by each circuit board. A display system prepares illustrations, such as graphs, which depict selected statistics. The apparatus also includes an application status register for storing information regarding the status of software executed by a processor board. The software sets a bit of the application status register to indicate that a specified event has begun and clears the bit to indicate that the specified event has terminated. The apparatus includes circuitry for reading the application status register to monitor the event.