Abstract: A method of providing Web access to data using dynamic generation of Web pages by a mainframe computer connected to a Web server. The mainframe computer has legacy programs, legacy data, and legacy subroutines on it (Legacy means existing information systems which may not be specifically adapted to Web access). A Web control program on the mainframe marries file definition objects and page definition objects to generate Web pages and allow a Web user to access legacy data stored in databases on the mainframe. A state key is generated by the mainframe upon a user inputting identification data and the state key is then incorporated into the Web page generated by the Web control program. By receiving the state key back from the user, the Web control program determines the extent of access allowed to a particular user without the user having to reenter identification data. The Web control program allows one to manage and change the appearance of Web pages.