System and method for maintaining state between a client and server

摘要

A method and apparatus for maintaining state between a client and server while protecting security and privacy allows the server to monitor and maintain a record of the client's current transaction status via a unique identifier. Generally, the client generates a unique identifier, which it transmits to web applications on remote servers during transactions. The web applications can track a series of continuous and related requests using this identifier to better serve the client. Thus, by maintaining state with web applications, the clients can take advantage of increased services than otherwise possible operating in a stateless protocol. However, the client is able to periodically change this identifier when the user desires anonymity.