Abstract: A system and method for the monitoring and collection of all inbound/outbound information activity and communications activity at a particular user location, for example, a household equipped with a variety of devices having communication capabilities. The real-time interaction between a user and an external information service is monitored and specific data are collected regarding that real-time interaction. Connectivity data (e.g., date/time of interactive session, number of packets sent/received, application file name) are collected. In addition, other substantive data (e.g., type of service, type and number of inquiries made) regarding the real-time interaction are collected. A connectivity and desktop activity monitor comprises a set of client software modules, including executable files and virtual device drivers that capture and log targeted operating system modem connectivity and desktop activity data.

Abstract: An information monitoring system for the collection of all real-time information activity between a user and a variety of information services. The real-time interaction between a user using a communication device to interface with an information service is monitored to collect certain predetermined information which characterizes the nature of the user's interaction with a particular information service. The information is collected on a operation by operation basis and is ultimately aggregated at a central location for data analysis purposes.