Abstract: An automated system employing a computer key having a number of pre-stored programs, each compatible with a different type of computer platform, are described. Computer key is designed to be plugged into a port of an unknown type of computer platform. Computer key interrogates computer platform from port to identify the platform hardware. Computer key then identifies the pre-stored software compatible with the current platform, and loads the compatible software onto platform. The software then runs on the platform, thereby automatically supporting a number of different platforms, transparent to a user.

Abstract: A method for operating various host computers regardless of the type of operating system installed. A portable operating system is stored on read/write media such as a rewritable CD, DVD or jump memory drive (“R/W media”). The operating system is stored at a starting location on the R/W media to make it load into the host computer when it is started and load the operating system. Communications software may be pre-stored on the R/W device for remote access. The communications programs are executed to allow the user to log into a remote server to access the pre-stored data, applications and user preferences to give the user a standard ‘look and feel’ regardless of which host computer is used or the software and operating system installed on the host computer. The invention may also operate without communications programs in a local mode.