Abstract: Systems and methods that provide for automatic device driver identification and installation. Each peripheral device to be added to a computer network or coupled to a personal computer is configured to have a uniform resource locator (URL) stored in its onboard firmware that provides direction to a location on the Internet where appropriate driver software is located and available for downloading and installation. When the peripheral device is connected to or to be used by the personal computer, the URL located in the firmware of the peripheral device is accessed. The URL automatically connects a web browser on the personal computer to an Internet site holding a driver for the peripheral device. Header information provided by the browser communicates information such as the type of personal computer and its operating system to the Internet site.

Abstract: Representative embodiments provide for a system, comprising a mobile device including a web browser and a printer including a communications bridge. The communications bridge is configured to couple the mobile device in data communication with the Internet, wherein the mobile device is further configured to access the Internet by way of the communications bridge using the web browser. The present invention also provides method including providing a printer including a communications bridge, and coupling the communications bridge in data communication with the Internet. The method also provides establishing data communication between the mobile device and the Internet by way of the communications bridge, and conducting an Internet session using the mobile device by way of the communications bridge.