Abstract: A method of determining a service provider to perform a service. A request for the service and requirements pertaining to performance of the service is received. Identification of providers of service capable of performing the service in conformity with the requirements is received. The request and the requirements are broadcasted to the providers of service. An indication of willingness, by service providers selected from the providers of service, to perform the service in conformity with the requirements is received. An indication of performance of the service by each service provider and statistical data indicative of an extent to which performance of the service by each service provider matches each requirement are received. A preferred service provider is ascertained from analysis of the statistical data, based on performance of the service by the preferred service provider most closely matching the requirements. An identification of the preferred service provider is stored.

Abstract: System, method and program for controlling access to a file within a computer. A predetermined value of an attribute of the computer is identified. A current value of the attribute is determined. Periodically, a determination is made if the predetermined value matches the current value. If so, access to the file is allowed. If not, access to the file is prevented. The period at which the determination is performed is based on a type of the attribute. The attribute of the computer can be a physical location of the computer, a type of network connection of the computer, or a type of application program resident in the computer.