APPLICATION SERVICE PROVIDER METHOD AND APPARATUS

A new system of granting access to network software services as offered by application service providers (ASPs). Central to the system is the use of smart cards, which combine superior user authentication with flexible containment of relevant user information and the ability to execute small software applications. Once smart cards have been issued to registered customers, all subsequent actions of ordering and using of services are under customer control. Once a relationship is established between provider and customer, any request for service or modification of existing provisions is under direct customer control, allowing close monitoring and even forecasting of cost development.