Automatic update of static and dynamic files at a remote network node in

Abstract

In a data processing network having a first processor (for example, a programmable workstation), a second processor (for example a host computer) and a communication system linking the first processor and the second processor, control logic associated with the first processor manages the flow of information between the first processor and the second processor on behalf of one or more application programs running on said first processor. The control logic responds too calls issued by, or on behalf of, an application invoked by a user at the first processor to determine if a file or, set of files, associated with the calling application is the most up-to-date version of the file, or set of files available. The most up-to-date versions are always stored at the second processor (i.e.: the host). A comparison is made between the files and their version levels currently available at the first processor (work station) and the up-to-date files held at the second processor (host). A list of actions to be taken is then compiled and files are downloaded to the first processor to replace out-of-date files, to add or create files in order to augment those already there, and to delete any obsolete files no longer required by the application.