Method and system for efficiently processing multiframe data in a client/server computing environment

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed for efficiently and selectively reloading frames of a multiframe Web page or a multiframe window. Multiple frames may be reloaded as a result of the server sending its response to a single client request message. Server-side logic maintains an awareness of which frames need to be reloaded, regardless of whether that need results from something synchronous with the client's request for a frame or asynchronous to that request. Then, when the client requests data for a single frame, in addition to sending content for the requested frame, the server also sends data to cause reloading of the other frames that need to be reloaded (and only those frames). Preferably, the data to cause reloading of the other frames comprises indicators (such as scripting code) that will force the client to request reloading of each of these other frames. Multiple reload requests may be collapsed into a single response. The disclosed techniques apply also to frames to be initially loaded. Bandwidth is used efficiently, and flashing of browser frames is reduced. No additional client-side logic is required.