System and method for remotely accessing a client in a client server environment

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.