Abstract: Method and apparatus for remote peripheral software installation. A software system running in a local computer system used by a system administrator can install drivers, network utilities, and other peripheral software on a remote system connected to a network. The software system gathers system information from the remote system including the locations and names of system files. The software system also provides for the stopping and restarting of services which are associated with the peripheral software. In this way, installation can be completed without rebooting, or otherwise disrupting the operation of the remote system. Additionally, no special software is needed on the remote system, and no user need be logged into the remote system.

Abstract: A server system for a document processing system includes a plurality of input sources. A plurality of satellite servers are connected to the input sources. The satellite servers receive a plurality of digital files from the input sources. A central server is connected to the satellite servers. The central server receives the digital files from the satellite servers and performs at least one action on at least one of the digital files.

Abstract: A facility for permitting self-deletion of application programs from a computer's mass-storage device is disclosed. The facility includes a component that tracks new files added in the course of program installation, as well as any modifications to permanent (e.g., system) files. An associated deletion component, actuable by a user, removes the added files from mass storage and reverses changes made to the permanent files. In one embodiment, the two components of the invention are associated with individual application programs; in another embodiment, the components are permanent features of the operating system or graphical user interface, and the tracking component maintains separate information for all application programs as these are installed.

Abstract: Methods and systems that facilitate translation of text associated with application programs (such as word processors, spreadsheets, and design software) into languages other than English are disclosed. At least the key textual terms of the application are isolated from executable program code and stored in separate character-string library files. Independent libraries are maintained for each foreign language into which the program is to be translated. Library entries are accessed by means of a string reader and formatter, which, in response to commands embedded in the application text, loads the appropriate libraries and retrieves the designated terms. The invention replaces text entries, which would otherwise appear alongside program code and require compilation, with commands designating character strings and, if desired, their manner of display as well.