Abstract: This invention provides a message format and a method for the delivery of message data from a transmitting computer in a first environment to a receiving computer in a second environment. The transmitting computer prepares a message which includes message data, a delivery wrapper and a presentation wrapper. The delivery wrapper includes a delivery agent and a list of presentation software and presentation data components which may be required for a user to access the message data on the receiving computer. The presentation software and presentation data components are included in the presentation wrapper of the message. The message is transmitted from the first computer to the second computer by a transmitting agent operating on the first computer, beginning with the delivery wrapper.

Abstract: A system and method for completing a transaction over a computer without transmitting personal information is disclosed. A purchaser uses a purchaser appliance establishes a communication session with a vendor server, which is operated by a vendor. The session is monitored by a transaction management server, which is operated by a transaction manager. When the purchaser indicates that he wishes to make a transaction, the transaction management server reviews and determines whether the transaction should be authorized, possibly based on the purchaser's credit history. If the transaction is authorized, the transaction is completed through the transaction manager. At no time does the vendor server or the vendor learn the identity of the purchaser.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for dynamically translating between a first communication protocol and a second communication protocol, said system comprising: means for receiving a first communication signal utilizing said first communication protocol; means for determining said first communication protocol; means for initiating a first communication protocol translator to extract data from said first communication signal in accordance with said first communication protocol and for storing said data in a buffer; and means for retrieving said data from said buffer and translating into a second communication stream utilizing said second protocol.