Abstract: A multipurpose interface and control system includes a managing and/or monitoring device (an “effectuator”) capable of monitoring parameter(s) and/or controlling function(s) of an apparatus, and a server system coupled to a communication medium, where the server system allows the effectuator (and via it the apparatus it monitors and/or controls) to be accessed remotely via the communication medium. The communication medium allows the effectuator to be accessed from remote locations by other devices capable of accessing the communications medium and thereby accessing the effectuator(s). The communications medium can take numerous forms, such as a direct connection, ethernet connection, internet connection, intranet connection, and/or phone connection. Preferably, the system includes at least one remote device capable of communicating with at least one effectuator via the communications medium (generally a network).