Abstract: The present invention provides methods and associated systems for authenticating the identity of a user for use in a distributed computer network including multiple sets of access credentials. A user request, including the user's input credentials, is received, and then compared simultaneously to multiple sets of access credentials in order to verify the user's input credentials. When the user's input credentials are verified, the appropriate level of access authority is then determined, and proper access is granted to the user.

Abstract: A method of restoring data in a computer network system wherein a plurality of client systems have access to a storage pool coupled to an associated storage area network (SAN) includes: requesting a restore wherein each of the plurality of client systems may participate in the restore; and coordinating access to the data stored in the storage pool by tracking a plurality of data portions of the data to be restored and by blocking access to each of the plurality of data portions that have been restored by one of the plurality of client systems to avoid duplicative restoration efforts. A master restore table may also be constructed to assist with coordinating access to the stored data. A computer network system configured to coordinate a restore request where a plurality of client systems may participate in the restore is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system, method, and program for processing a file request from an application program, such as a web browser. A file is maintained in a storage device accessible to a computer system. The file is capable of being accessed through a file system. A network connection is established with the application program using a network protocol. A request for the file is received from the application program via the network connection. A determination is then made as to whether the application program is executing in the computer system including the file system. If not, the file is transmitted over the network connection to the application program. Otherwise, the file is provided to the application program through the file system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for remotely accessing a client in a client-server system. From a browser, an end user enters a URL containing a machine name and a port number. A listening program at the client listening on that port number establishes communication with the browser and invokes a client agent. The client agent includes conventional client functions as well as APIs that allow the client to interface with both the server and the browser. The client agent then serves an applet to the browser that makes the browser appear to the end user as the client machine. The user can then execute client functions from the browser. Examples of the client functions include backing up and restoring files from the client to/from the server, migrating or recalling files, archiving or retrieving files.