Client computer configuration based on server computer update

摘要

The invention includes method and apparatus for updating a configuration of a client computer coupled by means of a network to a server computer. The updating process begins with a change in the status of a server computer. This change can be necessitated by addition of hardware such as an additional hard drive or the addition of an additional service such as shared Internet access. A status message is transmitted by means of the network between the server computer and the client computer regarding the changed status of the server computer. This message can be either an alert message from the server to all connected client computer nodes or can be accomplished by client polling for an updated status of the server. A message is displayed at the client computer to apprise a user that a status of the server computer has changed. Additionally, a communications between the client computer and the server computer takes place over the network to inform the client computer regarding details of the change of status in the server computer. This updated status allows a computer setup wizard running on the client computer to upgrade the status of the client.