SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DATA TRANSMISSION FOR COMPUTER NETWORKS UTILIZING HTTP

The present invention permits textual data to be exchanged between a Web page displayed in a standard Microsoft Web browser window and a server, utilizing a non-persistent HTTP connection. Traditionally, each time textual data is received to the displayed Web page a record is added to the history list. This is problematic as it clutters the history list, compromises the functionality of the browser “Back” and “Forward” buttons, and results in undesirable server operations to be executed. The present invention utilizes several methods for loading textual data to a displayed Web page, without adding a URL to the history list. In one aspect of the invention, a <xml> element is used to transmit a HTTP request for new data and receive the HTTP response. The present invention can be used to build a lightweight Web page that offers real-time data and interactivity.