Abstract: Embodiments of the invention extend a network protocol that is limited to a local area network (LAN) and enable it to function across the Internet. A LAN protocol is limited to providing services or resources to users within the same LAN. Embodiments of the invention make it possible for those services and resources to be available to users beyond the LAN. Embodiments of the invention also concern establishing connectivity without discovery for local area network protocols.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention extend a network protocol that is limited to a local area network (LAN) and enable it to function across the Internet. A LAN protocol is limited to providing services or resources to users within the same LAN. Embodiments of the invention make it possible for those services and resources to be available to users beyond the LAN. Embodiments of the invention also concern establishing connectivity without discovery for local area network protocols.

Abstract: A pre-boot loader reduces the boot time of an operating system (OS). An OS is typically loaded by its own OS loader. A pre-boot loader is typically a software module in the system firmware or the pre-boot environment that loads the OS loader, which in turn loads the OS. In one embodiment, the pre-boot loader bypasses part or all of the steps performed by the OS loader, which shortens the loading time of the OS loader and the OS. In another embodiment, bypassing the steps of the OS loader reduces dependency on the system firmware functions. The system firmware takes advantage of this to further reduce boot time, by executing the pre-boot loader earlier instead of waiting until the full completion of system initialization by the system firmware.

Abstract: A platform and service are provided that allow a user to have and use a personal, e.g. virtual, private cloud to which the user grants access to a defined group of users across multiple, different types of devices.

Abstract: An instant-on environment consists of components residing in a computer boot ROM and/or also on a mass storage device. Main components to the instant-on environment include a loader, EPG1, and EPG2. The loader is a module that is integrated into the computer boot ROM, based on an embedded OS, that functions to load other instant-on environment components. There are various methods of integrating the loader into boot firmware to optimize for different requirements. EPG1 is a first user screen that appears on the computer display within seconds after power-on, and from which the user can choose to launch one of the instant-on environment's applications or launch the primary OS. EPG2 is launched if the user chooses to launch an instant-on environment application. EPG2 is a Linux-based desktop environment that the user enters once he selects an application from EPG1.

Abstract: A pre-boot loader reduces the boot time of an operating system (OS). An OS is typically loaded by its own OS loader. A pre-boot loader is typically a software module in the system firmware or the pre-boot environment that loads the OS loader, which in turn loads the OS. In one embodiment, the pre-boot loader bypasses part or all of the steps performed by the OS loader, which shortens the loading time of the OS loader and the OS. In another embodiment, bypassing the steps of the OS loader reduces dependency on the system firmware functions. The system firmware takes advantage of this to further reduce boot time, by executing the pre-boot loader earlier instead of waiting until the full completion of system initialization by the system firmware.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for synchronizing different environments in response to a change in one of the environments. The term environment encompasses operating systems, virtual machines, and states. The synchronization functions when one environment controls a master file or the environments access a shared folder. The synchronization is one-way or two-ways. The synchronization applies to digital photos, personal information management data, shared maps and directions, documents, configuration data, network settings, browser data sync, account information for accessing the client, and local and web applications.

Abstract: A Quick Search User Interface (UI) comprises a search entry field for inputting characters, e.g. search terms. The Quick Search UI further comprises icons that are graphical representations of applications. The Quick Search UI subsequently launches an operating system and passes the user action to the operating system. The operating system uses this information to generate search results comprising websites, program files, videos, etc. Alternatively, the operating system launches the application(s) selected by the user. Icons displayed on the user interface are ordered, for example, according to a company's willingness to pay more money for a more prominent spot or according to user preferences. The Quick Search UI can be customized using skins with themes, such as musicians, geographic locations, and/or products. The icons can be displayed according to which application provider pays the highest premium, or according to user preference.

Abstract: An instant-on environment consists of components residing in a computer boot ROM and/or also on a mass storage device. Main components to the instant-on environment include a loader, EPG1, and EPG2. The loader is a module that is integrated into the computer boot ROM, based on an embedded OS, that functions to load other instant-on environment components. There are various methods of integrating the loader into boot firmware to optimize for different requirements. EPG1 is a first user screen that appears on the computer display within seconds after power-on, and from which the user can choose to launch one of the instant-on environment's applications or launch the primary OS. EPG2 is launched if the user chooses to launch an instant-on environment application. EPG2 is a Linux-based desktop environment that the user enters once he selects an application from EPG1.