Abstract: A relay storage apparatus executes data relay between separated networks using a storage apparatus and performs exclusive control between systems in an operation equivalent to the case of a network connection. The relay storage apparatus has a storage unit having a data area for storing files to be transferred between the networks in file units, and a file management table for indicating the access status to the file, and data management unit for performing exclusive control between file systems for each one of the networks using the file management table. Since exclusive control is performed in file units, the operation of data distribution between networks becomes easier while insuring the certainty of data distribution, just like the case of a network connection.

Abstract: A data management mechanism comprises a unit 2 for managing data attributes, including a data conversion policy, a unit 3 for detecting timing for data conversion and/or distribution as a trigger, a unit 4 for converting and/or distributing data depending on a data attribute managed by the unit 2 when the unit 3 detects the trigger. The data management mechanism is managed by an operating system for managing a file system and operates independently from an application program.