Abstract: The method and apparatus enables a terminal to access a computer located at a distance therefrom by an uncomplicated, easy-to-understand, log-on procedure. The system includes a group of terminals which are each able to access a host computer. If desired, the host computer is, in turn, adapted to extend the communication path from the terminal, through the host computer, to the remotely located service computer. The user can establish the communication path to the host computer by a single activation of a terminal key. By activating a single other key, the path is then extended from the host computer to the service computer. The activation of a single further key causes the execution of a selected program.