Abstract: A process of distributing software and data in a digital computer network by combining the software and data, together with programs and data known as methods, into single entities referred to as Packages, and then by using specific techniques to transmit Packages from one computer to another. The methods are operable on a Target digital computer to unpack and perform useful functions such as installing and backing out software on the Target digital computer, collecting data from the Target digital computer and forwarding it to another digital computer, or completing a system administration function on the Target digital computer. The techniques used in transmitting Packages between digital computers includes use of Agent software to transfer and activate Packages at appropriate times. The techniques also include forwarding multiple copies of Packages received on a slow network connection to one or more digital computers connected on faster network connections.