Method of connecting a user to a network
The present invention comprises a method of and apparatus for simplifying the process of access to a network for a roaming computer user, divides the responsibility of servicing a given user wanting to access the network between multiple parties and minimizes the possibility of improper dissemination of email header data as well as improper use of network resources (including server systems) by non-clients.
1. A method of providing anonymity to a network user through the dynamic allocation of log-in information to users comprising the steps of:
storing a hidden set of first log-in information in a network accessing device during a temporary communication with an access service connected to the network; and
storing a modified set of hidden second log-in information in said network accessing device when the user, during a subsequent network log-in attempt, is denied access because another user is presently using said first log-in information, said modified set of hidden second log-in information allowing said network accessing device to access the network.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein both network users are registered network users.
3. A method of obtaining anonymity on a network comprising the steps of:
accessing the network via an available network service provider (NSP) using a previously provided set of log-in information;
obtaining a set of network access information from an access service databank, the set of network access information having been determined to be unused;
modifying said previously provided set of log-in information with the determined to be unused set of network access information; and
using the last modified set of log-in information when next re-accessing the network via a given NSP.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the determined to be unused set of network access information is not derived from the previously provided set of log-in information.
5. A method of obtaining a set of network access information comprising the steps of:
modifying a stored set of network access information using new information downloaded, via the network, to a network access device from an access provider connected to said network; and
the network access device re-accessing the network via a given network service provider (NSP) using the modified set of network access information.