Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and system for remotely backing-up computer memories utilizing a global communications network. An embodiment of the present invention utilizes the INTERNET to access a plurality of computers. The plurality of computers is in electrical communication with a central office. In one embodiment of the invention, a computer located in the central office administers a memory back-up procedure at a customer's location. The central office computer may also assess whether the memory back-up procedure has been successfully completed, and if not, send an electronic notification to a predetermined system or individual that a failure has occurred, and to automatically provide repairs.

Abstract: A computer network system is set forth for bi-directionally communicating information in a predetermined format between a plurality of client computers and a server. The system includes an archive computer system having a mass storage database. The archive computer system can store and retrieve a number of client records to and from the mass storage database. Prior to storing each client record in the database, the record is appended with a transparent sector. The transparent sector includes software application and version related information which is associated with the software application and version used to generate the record. Upon retrieval of the record from the mass storage database, the contents of the transparent sector is compared to a table to insure the requesting client computer includes a software application and version compatible with the retrieved record.