JP2010092322A - Network system, server device, and printer driver - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique which reduces a load on a network when a printer driver of latest version or firmware of latest version is acquired from a server of a maker. <P>SOLUTION: A server device 100 receives services from a prescribed server device 400 which provides the services, and a plurality of printer hosts 200 and a plurality of printers 300 are connected to a local network 50 on the server device 100 side. The server device 100 collectively (in units of companies) acquires printer drivers of latest version and firm ware of latest version from the server device 400 with respect to the printer driver installed in the plurality of printer hosts 200 and the firm ware installed in the plurality of printers 300, respectively. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for managing a printer connected to a network.

Conventionally, a user who has purchased a printer or a user who has installed a printer driver individually performs user registration with a manufacturer and also performs version management of the printer driver and printer firmware.

Even in a company, etc., there are cases in which individual users are left with version management of printer drivers and firmware for information devices such as printers owned by the company. In such a case, each user searches for the latest version of the printer driver and firmware from the manufacturer's server, and installs it by himself / herself.

For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for downloading (automatically updating) the latest version of printer firmware from a manufacturer's WEB server.
JP 2006-235739 A

However, accessing the manufacturer's server from each printer host or printer and downloading the printer driver, firmware, etc. places a heavy load on the network.

  An object of this invention is to provide the technique which solves the said subject.

The present invention for solving the above-described problems includes a first server on the service providing side, a second server on the service receiving side, and a plurality of local servers connected to the local network on the second server side. A network system having a printer host and a plurality of printers connected to the local network, wherein the second server includes a printer driver installed in the plurality of printer hosts and a plurality of printers. Installed firmware, storage means for storing version information about, and version management means for periodically inquiring the first server about the presence or absence of the latest version of the printer driver or firmware using the version information; And the first server has a latest version. Storage means for storing the printer driver and firmware, and when the latest version of the storage means is a version newer than the version indicated by the version information transmitted from the second server, Providing means for providing the latest version of the printer driver or firmware to the second server, and the version management means of the second server, when the latest version of the printer driver is provided, The printer host is notified that the latest version of the printer driver has been provided, and when the latest version of the firmware is provided, the latest version of the firmware is transmitted to the printer, and the printer host sends the notification. If accepted, the latest version A receiving means for receiving an indication of whether or not to get the motor driver from a user, wherein when the instruction was accepted to get at the reception unit acquires the latest version of the printer driver from the second server,
Printer driver management means for installing, and the printer comprises firmware management means for installing the latest version of firmware transmitted from the second server.
A network system characterized by this.

  Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining an outline of a hardware configuration of a network system 10 to which an embodiment of the present invention is applied. As shown, network system 1
0 includes a first server 400, a second server 100, a plurality of information processing terminals 200, and a plurality of printers 300.

The first server 400 is a server arranged in the manufacturer (manufacturing company) of the printer 300, and provides the latest printer driver and firmware to users (including companies, organizations, and individuals) who have purchased the printer 300. Do the services you provide.

The second server 100 is a user who owns the printer 300 (including companies, organizations, and individuals).
The server is arranged in a local network (for example, LAN) 50 constructed by the above-described method, and receives a service provided by the first server via a global network (for example, the Internet) 60. The second server 100 manages information devices such as the information processing terminal 200 and the printer 300 connected to the local network 50.

The information processing terminal 200 is connected to the local network 50 and functions as a printer host of the printer 300.

The printer 300 is connected to the local network 50 and is controlled by the information processing terminal 200 to perform printing.

For example, the first server 400, the second server 100, and the information processing terminal 200 described above each include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a RAM (Random Access Mem) (not shown).
ory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a hard disk, and a network interface. However, the configuration of each computer is not limited to this, and may include, for example, a USB interface or a portable storage medium reader.

For example, the printer 300 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a network interface, and a print engine (not shown). However, the configuration of the printer 300 is not limited to this, and may include a USB interface, for example. Further, the printer 300 is not limited to a printer.
It may be a device, a multifunction machine, or the like.

Further, a server having a firewall function or the like may be installed between the second server 100 and the first server 400 for security measures. Or second
The server 100 may have a firewall function.

Next, a functional configuration realized by the first server 400 in the network system 10 will be described.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the first server 400. As illustrated, the first server 400 includes a service providing unit 410 and a storage unit 420. The service providing unit 410 is constructed by the CPU executing a computer program loaded in the RAM included in the first server 400. The storage unit 420 is constructed by a storage device such as a ROM or a hard disk.

The storage unit 420 stores a company management table 421 and a program management table 422 as illustrated.

The company management table 421 stores data for identifying companies that are permitted to enjoy the service provided by the first server 400 (hereinafter referred to as “service-permitted companies”). In addition, although an organization and an individual are included in a company, below, it describes collectively as a "company."

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the company management table 421. As shown in the figure, the company management table 421 includes a record 4215 for each service-permitted company.
Each record 4215 is added when a predetermined registration process is performed by a company that owns the printer 300. Each record 4215 includes company identification information (company ID) 4211,
A company name 4212, company information 4213, and a password 4214 are stored in association with each other.

The company ID 4211 is a character string (including a numeric string) for identifying a service-permitted company. Further, the company ID 4211 is assigned to the second server 10 located in the service-permitted company.
Used for collation when an access request is made from 0.

The company name 4212 is data for specifying the name of the service-permitted company, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The company information 4213 is data for specifying an address or a telephone number of a service-permitted company, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The password 4214 includes a character string (including a numeric string) designated by the company, and when the access request is made from the second server 100 arranged in the service-permitted company, similarly to the company ID 4211 described above. Used for verification.

Next, the program management table 422 stores data for managing the latest version of the printer driver (for installation) and the latest version of firmware (for installation).

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the program management table 422. As shown in the figure, the program management table 422 includes a record for each printer model name and terminal model name manufactured by the manufacturer. Each record is updated every time the latest version of firmware (for installation) or printer driver (for installation) is created. Each record includes a printer model name 4221, the latest firmware 4222, a terminal model name 4223 for an information processing terminal (a plurality when there are a plurality of information processing terminals) that can control the printer of the printer model name 4221, and a latest printer driver 4224. Are stored in association with each other.

The printer model name 4221 is data for specifying the model name of the printer manufactured by the manufacturer, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The latest firmware 4222 includes the latest version of firmware (for installation) that can be installed in the printer of the model specified by the printer model name 4221. However, the latest firmware 4222 does not have to be firmware (program) itself, and may be constituted by firmware version information and data indicating a storage location of firmware (for example, an address on a memory).

The terminal model name 4223 is data for specifying the model name of an information processing terminal (PC) that can control the printer of the printer model name 4221, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The latest printer driver 4224 is the latest version of the printer driver that can be installed on the information processing terminal (PC) of the model specified by the terminal model name 4223 (for installation).
Consists of. However, the latest printer driver 4224 may be compatible with the latest firmware 4222 even if it is not the latest version of the printer driver. In addition, the printer driver (program) itself may not be included, and the printer driver version information and data indicating the storage location of the printer driver (for example, an address on a memory) may be used.

Returning to FIG. 2, the service providing unit 410 performs processing for registering a user (company) when the user (company) who purchased the printer 300 is requested to start providing the service. Specifically, the service providing unit 410 adds the above-described data (company ID 4211, company name 4212, company information 4213, and password 4214) to the company management table 421.
As a result, the company that owns the second server 100 is registered as a service-permitted company in the first server 400.

Further, the service providing unit 410 provides the user (company) who has purchased the printer 300 to the user.
Provide the latest printer driver (for installation) and firmware (for installation). Specifically, in response to a periodic inquiry from the second server 100, the service providing unit 410 sends a printer driver of a newer version than the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 or the printer 300. A firmware version newer than the installed firmware is retrieved from the program management table 422 and provided.

Next, the second server 100 and the information processing terminal 200 in the network system 10
A functional configuration realized in the printer 300 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of functional configurations of the second server 100, the information processing terminal 200, and the printer 300. As illustrated, the second server 100 includes a management unit 11.
0, fraud detection unit 120, and storage unit 130. Management unit 110 and fraud detection unit 1
20 is a computer program loaded in the RAM included in the second server 100,
It is constructed by execution by the CPU. The storage unit 130 is constructed by a storage device such as a ROM or a hard disk.

As illustrated, the storage unit 130 stores a terminal information table 131, a printer information table 132, a program management table 133, and a user management table 134.

The terminal information table 131 stores information about the information processing terminal (PC) 200 managed by the second server 100 (company).

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the terminal information table 131. As illustrated, the terminal information table 131 includes records 1216 for each information processing terminal (PC) 200 managed by the second server 100 (company). Each record 1216 is added when the information processing terminal 200 is introduced into a company (local network 50). Each record includes terminal identification information (terminal ID) 1311, IP address 1312, terminal model name 1313, printer driver version information 1314 (a plurality when there are a plurality), and registered printers 1315 (when there are a plurality of printers). Are stored in association with each other.

The terminal ID 1311 is a character string (including a numeric string) for identifying the information processing terminal (PC) 200, for example, a unique MAC assigned to the information processing terminal (PC) 200.
It consists of an address.

The IP address 1312 is an information processing terminal (PC
) IP address assigned to 200. When the actual IP address of the information processing terminal (PC) 200 is changed, the IP address 131 of the terminal information table 131 is changed.
2 is updated at any time.

The terminal model name 1313 is the information processing terminal 20 connected to the local network 50.
This is data for specifying a model name of 0, and is composed of, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The printer driver version information 1314 is data that identifies the version of the printer driver that is actually installed in the information processing terminal 200, and includes, for example, a predetermined numeric string (including a character string). If a plurality of printer drivers are installed in the information processing terminal 200, each printer driver has data for specifying a version. When the version of the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is changed, the printer driver version information 1314 in the terminal information table 131 is updated as needed.

The registered printer 1315 is a character string (including a numeric string) for identifying a printer registered as a printer controlled by the information processing terminal 200 with the terminal ID 1311. For example, a unique serial number assigned to the printer Consists of.

Next, the printer information table 132 stores information about the printer 300 managed by the second server 100 (company).

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the printer information table 132. As illustrated, the printer information table 132 includes a record 1325 for each printer 300 managed by the second server 100 (company). Each record 1325 is stored in the printer 30.
0 is added when it is introduced into a company (local network 50). Each record 1
325 includes printer identification information (printer ID) 1321, an IP address 1322,
A printer model name 1323 and firmware version information 1324 are stored in association with each other.

The printer ID 1321 is data corresponding to the registered printer 1314 and includes, for example, a unique serial number assigned to the printer 300.

The IP address 1322 is an IP address assigned to the printer 300 on the local network 50.

The printer model name 1323 is the printer 30 connected to the local network 50.
This is data for specifying a model name of 0, and is composed of, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The firmware version information 1324 is data that identifies the version of the firmware actually installed in the printer 300, and includes, for example, a predetermined numeric string (including a character string). When there is a change in the version of firmware installed in the printer 300, the firmware version information 1324 in the printer information table 132 is updated as needed.

Next, the program management table 133 stores firmware actually installed in the printer 300 managed by the second server 100 (company). Along with this, a printer driver actually installed in the information processing terminal 200 managed by the second server 100 (company) is stored.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the program management table 133. As shown in the figure, the program management table 133 is composed of records for each printer model name and terminal model name of the printer 300 managed by the second server 100 (company). Each record is added when a printer 300 or an information processing terminal 200 of a model that has not been managed by the second server 100 is installed in a company (local network 50). Each record includes a printer model name 1331, firmware 1332, and printer model name 13.
A terminal model name 1333 and a printer driver 1334 for information processing terminals (a plurality when there are a plurality of information processing terminals) capable of controlling 31 printers are stored in association with each other.

The printer model name 1331 is data corresponding to the printer model name 1323 of the printer information table 132, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The firmware 1332 includes the latest version of firmware that should be stalled in the printer of the model specified by the printer model name 1331. However, firmware 13
The firmware 32 may not be firmware (program) itself, but may be constituted by firmware version information and data indicating a storage location of firmware (for example, an address on a memory). The firmware 1332 is updated every time the latest firmware 4222 is acquired from the first server 400.

The terminal model name 1333 is data corresponding to the terminal model name 1313 of the terminal information table 131, and includes, for example, a predetermined character string (including a numeric string).

The printer driver 1334 includes the latest version of the printer driver to be installed in the information processing terminal of the model specified by the terminal model name 1333. However, the printer driver 1334 may not be the printer driver (program) itself, but may be constituted by printer driver version information and data indicating the storage location (for example, an address on the memory) of the printer driver. The printer driver 1334 is updated every time the latest printer driver 4224 is acquired from the first server 400.

Also, the printer driver 1334 is recommended by a company even if it is not the latest version (
It is also possible to use an appropriate version of the specified printer driver. In this case, the printer driver 1334 is appropriately updated by the management user.

Next, the user management table 134 stores data for managing users (employees) belonging to the company that owns the second server 100.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of the user management table 134. As illustrated, the user management table 134 includes a record 1344 for each user (employee). Each record 1344 is added when a predetermined registration process of a user (employee) is performed. Each record 1344 stores employee identification information (employee ID) 1341, name 1342, and use permission terminal 1343 in association with each other.

The employee ID 1341 is a character string (including a numeric string) for identifying a user (employee). The employee ID 1341 is used for verification when an access request is made from the information processing terminal 200.

The name 1342 is data for specifying the name of the user (employee), and is composed of a predetermined character string, for example.

The use permission terminal 1343 is data that identifies the information processing terminal 200 that is permitted to be used by the user (employee), and is data corresponding to the terminal ID 1311, for example.

Returning to FIG. 5, the management unit 110 manages the information processing terminal 200 and the printer 300 connected to the local network 50. For example, the management unit 110 registers the information processing terminal 200 and the printer 300 connected to the local network 50 (hereinafter referred to as “registration process”). In addition, the management unit 110 periodically inquires the first server 400 about the presence or absence of the latest version of the printer driver and firmware, and acquires them if they exist (hereinafter referred to as “version update processing”).

The fraud detection unit 120 detects a printer driver that has been illegally installed in the information processing terminal 200 (hereinafter, referred to as “fraud detection process”). Specifically, the fraud detection unit 120 acquires the version information of the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200, and the acquired version information is the version information of the printer driver 1334 registered in the program management table 133. If they do not match, it is identified that the installation was illegal.

Next, the information processing terminal 200 includes a management unit 210 and a terminal information storage unit 22 as illustrated.
0 and the printer driver unit 230. Management unit 210 and printer driver unit 23
0 is constructed by the CPU executing the computer program loaded in the RAM provided in the information processing terminal 200, respectively. In addition, the terminal information storage unit 220 stores the RO
It is constructed by a storage device such as M or a hard disk.

The management unit 210 manages printer drivers (including a printer driver unit 230 described later) in the information processing terminal 200. For example, the management unit 210 performs processing for installing a printer driver in the information processing terminal 200. When the printer driver is installed for the first time after purchase, the management unit 210 acquires printer information about the printer 300 from the printer 300 corresponding to the printer driver, and the information processing terminal 200 together with the acquired printer information. Terminal information is registered in the second server 100. Further, the management unit 210 performs processing for updating the printer driver (including update and downdate).

The terminal information recording unit 220 records terminal information regarding the information processing terminal 200. For example,
The terminal information includes the version information of the installed printer driver and the terminal ID
(MAC address), assigned IP address, terminal model name, and printer (serial number) that can be controlled by the information processing terminal 200 are included.

The printer driver unit 230 is connected to the printer 3 connected to the local network 50.
It functions as a printer driver that controls 00. Here, the printer driver unit 230 is a printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200, and does not include a printer driver that is not installed (for installation).

Next, the printer 300 includes a management unit 310 and a printer information storage unit 32 as illustrated.
0 and a firmware unit 330. Each of the management unit 310 and the firmware unit 330 stores a computer program loaded in a RAM included in the printer 300.
It is constructed by execution by the CPU. Alternatively, the management unit 310 and the firmware unit 33
0 is a dedicated ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circulation) for realizing each function.
uit) may be constructed by operating. In addition, the printer information storage unit 320 has an R
It is constructed by a storage device such as OM.

The management unit 310 manages firmware (including a firmware unit 330 described later) in the printer 300. For example, the management unit 310 performs a process for updating firmware installed in the printer 300. In addition, the management unit 310 transmits printer information described later to the information processing terminal 200 in response to a request from the information processing terminal 200.

The printer information recording unit 320 records printer information regarding the printer 300. For example, the printer information includes version information of installed firmware, a printer ID (serial number), an assigned IP address, a printer model name, and the like.

The firmware unit 330 functions as firmware that controls the printer 300.

  Next, a characteristic operation of the network system 10 having the above configuration will be described.

<Registration process>
FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing registration processing in the network system 10.

First, the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 performs a process of installing a printer driver compressed for installation in the information processing terminal 200 (step S1). For example, the management unit 210 reads and installs a printer driver (installation program) stored in a portable storage medium (such as a CD-ROM or USB memory). Alternatively, the management unit 210 acquires and installs a printer driver (installation program) stored in the second server 100 via the local network 50.

After the installation, the management unit 210 starts communication with the printer 300 that can be controlled by the installed printer driver (printer driver unit 230) (step S2).
. For example, the management unit 210 requests printer information from the printer 300 via the local network 50.

When starting the communication with the information processing terminal 200, the management unit 310 of the printer 300 transmits the printer information stored in the printer information storage unit 320 to the information processing terminal 200 (step S3).

When receiving the printer information transmitted from the printer 300, the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 reads the terminal information stored in the terminal information storage unit 220, receives the received printer information, the read terminal information, and the user Employee I input from the keyboard etc.
D is transmitted to the second server 100 (step S4).

Here, the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 must identify the second server 100 on the local network 50 before transmitting each piece of information to the second server.
The method for specifying the second server may be any method, for example, the following three methods.

(1) First identification method The portable server distributed from the manufacturer stores the identification information (for example, URL information) of the second server 100 in advance together with the printer driver (for installation).
The management unit 210 reads the specific information and specifies the second server 100.

(2) Second Identification Method When a portable storage medium storing a printer driver (for installation) is distributed from a manufacturer, the second server 100 (management unit 110) stores the second storage method in the portable storage medium. Server 1
00 specification (for example, URL information) is stored. Then, the portable storage medium is distributed to each employee, and the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 reads the specific information from the distributed portable storage medium and identifies the second server 100.

(3) Third Identification Method The installer (program) for performing the installation in step S1 includes a module for searching for the second server 100 on the local network 50, and the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200. Identifies the second server 100 according to the module.

Note that the management unit 110 stores the specific information in the storage unit 110 after specifying the second server 100 by the above-described specification method. When the management unit 110 transmits data to the second server 100 (communicates with the second server 100), the management unit 110 uses the specific information stored in the storage unit 110 to make the second server 100 in advance. Identify.

Next, when receiving the terminal information, the printer information, and the employee ID transmitted from the information processing terminal 200, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 registers each information (step S5).

For example, the management unit 110 first searches the user management table 134 for the received employee ID. When the corresponding employee ID 1341 exists in the user management table 134,
Register terminal information and printer information. Specifically, the management unit 110 stores a record 1316 in which each piece of information (terminal ID, IP address, terminal model name, printer driver version, registered printer) included in the received terminal information is associated with the terminal information table. 131
Add to At the same time, the management unit 110 adds a record 1325 that associates each piece of information (printer ID, IP address, printer model name, firmware version) included in the received printer information to the printer information table 132.

On the other hand, when the received employee ID does not exist in the user management table 134, the management unit 110 notifies the information processing terminal 200 of an error.

In addition, even when the corresponding employee ID 134 exists in the user management table 134, the management unit 110 does not perform registration if the employee (user) does not have permission to use the information processing terminal 200. An error may be notified. Specifically, the management unit 110 reads the use permission terminal 1343 associated with the searched employee ID 134 from the user management table 134, the read use permission terminal 1343, and the terminal ID included in the received terminal information. , And if they do not match, an error is notified.

Through the above registration process, the network system 10 of the present exemplary embodiment has the second server 10.
0, information devices (a plurality of information processing terminals 20) in a company (local network 50)
0, a plurality of printers 300) can be registered. Accordingly, the second server 100 can perform version management for the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 and the firmware installed in the printer 300.

<Version update process>
FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing version update processing in the network system 10.

First, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 periodically inquires of the first server 400 about the presence or absence of the latest version of the printer driver and firmware (step S11). Specifically, the management unit 110 includes all terminal model names 1313 and printer driver version information 1314 stored in the terminal information table 131, and all printer model names 1323 and firmware stored in the printer information table 132. The version information 1324, the company ID for identifying the company that owns the second server 100, and the password input by the user are collectively displayed on the first server 100.
(Via the global network 60). As described above, the printer driver version information 1314 in the terminal information table 131 indicates the version of the printer driver actually installed in each information processing terminal 200, and the firmware version information 1324 in the printer information table 132 is The printer driver version actually installed in each printer 300 is shown.

Subsequently, when the service providing unit 410 of the first server 400 receives an inquiry from the second server 100, the printer driver and firmware of the latest version (a version newer than the actually installed version) are present. Judgment,
If yes, identify the latest version of the printer driver and firmware (
Step S12).

Specifically, the service providing unit 410 first searches the company management table 421 registered in advance for the company ID transmitted from the second server. Applicable company ID 42
11 is present in the company management table 421, it is determined whether or not the password transmitted from the second server matches the password 4214 associated with the company ID 4211. If the corresponding company ID does not exist in the company management table 421 or if the passwords do not match, an error is sent to the second server 100 without performing processing for determining whether or not there is the latest version of the printer driver and firmware. Notice.

On the other hand, if the passwords match, the service providing unit 410 reads the program management table 422 and records a record having both the printer model name 1323 and the terminal model name 1313 transmitted from the second server 100. Search for. Then, the service providing unit 410 extracts the latest firmware 4222 associated with the retrieved record and the version information of the latest printer driver 4224.

Here, the service providing unit 410 compares the extracted latest firmware 4222 with the firmware version information 1324 transmitted from the second server 100. As a result of the comparison, if the latest firmware stored in the program management table 422 is a newer version, the latest firmware 4222 is specified as the latest version of firmware.

Similarly for the printer driver, the service providing unit 410 compares the extracted latest printer driver 4224 with the printer driver version information 1314 transmitted from the second server 100. As a result of the comparison, if the latest printer driver 4224 stored in the program management table 422 is a newer version, the latest printer driver 4224 is specified as the latest version of the printer driver.

Then, the service providing unit 410 replaces the identified latest firmware 4222 and the latest printer driver 4224 with the printer model name 42 corresponding to the latest firmware 4222.
21 and the terminal model name 4223 corresponding to the latest printer driver 4224 are transmitted to the second server 100 (step S13). As one example, the program management table 4 has a version (latest version) that is newer than the printer driver or firmware installed in each information device (information processing terminal 200, printer 300).
If not, the service providing unit 410 notifies the second server 100 that there is no latest version of the printer driver or firmware.

In step S13, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 updates the latest firmware 4222.
Is received (updated) in the printer 300 (step S14). Specifically, first, the management unit 110 searches the printer information table 132 for the printer model name 4221 received together with the latest firmware 4222. For the printer 300 specified by the printer ID 1321 (IP address 1322) associated with the searched printer model name 1323,
The latest firmware 4222 received is transmitted. At this time, the management unit 3 of the printer 300
10 receives the latest firmware 4222 and updates the installed firmware.

When the management unit 110 of the second server 100 receives the latest printer driver 4224 in step S13, the management unit 110 notifies the information processing terminal 200 of an update (step S1).
5). Specifically, first, the management unit 110 searches the terminal information table 131 for the terminal model name 4223 received together with the latest printer driver 4224. Then, an update notification is sent to the information processing terminal 200 identified by the terminal ID 1311 (IP address 1312) associated with the searched terminal model name 1313.

Upon receiving the update notification, the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 requests the second server 100 for the latest version of the printer driver (latest printer driver 4224) based on an instruction from the user (step S16).

The management unit 110 of the second server 100 that has received this request, the information processing terminal 200 that has requested the latest printer driver 4224 received in step S13 in step S16.
(Step S17).

The management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 that has received the latest printer driver 4224 installs (updates) the received latest printer driver 4224 in the information processing terminal 200 (step S18).

When the installation (update) is completed, the management unit 210 notifies the second server 100 of the completion of the installation (update) (step S19).

Subsequently, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 updates the data in the program management table 133 (step S20).

Specifically, if the management unit 110 has received the latest firmware 4222 in step S13, the management unit 110 reads the program management table 133 and reads the latest firmware 42.
22 is searched from the program management table 133 for the printer model name 4221 received together with the printer 22. Then, the firmware 1332 corresponding to the searched printer model name 1331 is updated (overwritten) with the latest firmware 4222 of the appropriate version received in step S13. Note that the management unit 110 updates the latest firmware 4222 even if the notification is not received in step S19.

In step S13, the latest printer driver 4224 is received, and in step S1.
9 receives the notification, the management unit 110 reads the program management table 133 and receives the terminal model name 422 received together with the latest printer driver 4224 in step S13.
3 is retrieved from the program management table 133. And the searched terminal model name 133
3 is updated (overwritten) with the latest version of the latest printer driver 4224 received in step S13.

Furthermore, the management unit 110 also updates the printer information table 132 and the terminal information table 131. For example, the management unit 110 updates the firmware version information 1 associated with the printer ID 1321 of the printer 300 updated in step S14.
324 is updated (overwritten) with the version information of the latest firmware 4222 updated in step S14. Also, the management unit 110 installs (updates) the printer driver version information 1334 associated with the terminal ID 1331 of the information processing terminal 200 installed (updated) in step S18 to the version of the latest printer driver 4224 installed (updated) in step S18. Update (overwrite) with information.

In the network system 10 that performs the above version update process, the first server 100
Communication is not performed in units of information devices (information processing terminal 200, printer 300) but in units of companies (second server 100), so that the load on the global network 60 can be reduced. Furthermore, since various information is not transmitted from each information device to the first server 100, leakage of personal information and the like can be prevented, and security problems are unlikely to occur.

<Injustice detection processing>
FIG. 12 is a timing chart showing fraud detection processing in the network system 10.

Note that the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 uses the first server 40 by some method.
It is assumed that an invalid version of the printer driver is acquired (installed) from 0 or the like (
Step S21). Here, the unauthorized version refers to a version different from the version (proper version) of the printer driver 1334 stored in the program management table 133.

The fraud detection unit 120 of the second server 100 periodically checks the version information of the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 regardless of whether an illegal version of the printer driver is installed in the information processing terminal 200. (Step S22). Specifically, the fraud detection unit 120 periodically requests version information of the installed printer driver from the information processing terminal 200 connected to the local network 50.

The management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 notifies the second server 100 of the version information of the installed printer driver and the terminal ID (step S23). Specifically, the management unit 210 reads the version information stored in the terminal information storage unit 220 and the terminal ID, and transmits the read version information to the second server 100.

Here, the fraud detection unit 120 of the second server 100 that has received the version information and the terminal ID reads the terminal information table 131 and searches for the terminal ID received from the information processing terminal 200. Then, the printer driver version information 1314 associated with the searched terminal ID 1311 is updated with the version information received from the information processing terminal 200.

Subsequently, the fraud detector 120 detects a printer driver that is illegally installed in the information processing terminal 200 (step S24). Specifically, first, fraud detector 120 has terminal model name 1313 associated with terminal ID 1311 received in step S23.
Is identified from the terminal information table 131. Then, version information (appropriate version) of the printer driver 1334 associated with the specified terminal model name 1313 (terminal model name 1333) is extracted from the program management table 133. Further, the fraud detector 12
0 compares the version information received in step S23 with the version information (appropriate version) extracted from the program management table 133. Here, when both version information corresponds, the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is determined to be a proper version. On the other hand, if the two versions do not match, the information processing terminal 200
The printer driver installed in is determined to be an illegal version.

The fraud detection unit 120 notifies the fraud to the information processing terminal 200 in which the printer driver determined to be an unauthorized version in step S24 is installed (step S25).
. Specifically, the fraud detection unit 120 first reads the terminal information table 131 and identifies the terminal ID 1311 (IP address 1312) associated with the printer driver version 1314 of the printer driver determined to be an unauthorized version. For the information processing terminal 200 specified by the specified terminal ID 1311 (IP address 1312),
Notify fraud.

Further, the fraud detection unit 120 acquires a proper version of the printer driver from the information processing terminal 2.
00 (step S26). Specifically, the fraud detection unit 120 performs step S24.
The proper version of the printer driver 133 extracted from the program management table 133
4 is transmitted to the information processing terminal 200 that has notified the fraud in step S25.

Upon receiving the appropriate version of the printer driver 1334, the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 installs (updates or downdates) the printer driver 1334 in the information processing terminal 200 (step S27).

When the installation (update or downdate) is completed, the management unit 210 notifies the second server 100 of the completion of the installation (update or downdate) (
Step S28).

Subsequently, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 updates data in the program management table 133 (step S29).

Specifically, the management unit 110 identifies, from the terminal information table 131, the terminal ID 1311 of the information processing terminal 200 that has transmitted the printer driver 1334 in step S26. The printer driver version information 1 associated with the specified terminal ID 1311
314 is updated (overwritten) with the version information (proper version) of the printer driver transmitted to the information processing terminal 200.

Through the above fraud detection process, in the network system 10 according to the present embodiment, a fraudulent version, that is, a version that is not the latest version or a printer driver that is not designated (recommended) by the company is installed in the information processing terminal 200. Can be prevented.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible.

For example, when the IP address assigned to the printer 300 is changed, the second server 100 registers the registration information (printer information table 13) about the printer 300.
You may make it update 2) at any time.

FIG. 13 (upper) is a flowchart showing processing when the IP address of the printer 300 is changed.

As shown in the figure, when there is a change in the IP address assigned to the printer 300 (
Step 31), the management unit 310 of the printer 300 changes the IP address stored in the printer information storage unit 320.

The management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 starts recommunication with the printer 300 that has become unable to communicate (step S32). Specifically, the management unit 210 searches the local network 50 for the printer 300 having the printer ID of the printer 300 that has become unable to communicate, and resumes communication with the searched printer 300.

Then, the management unit 310 of the printer 300 transmits the printer information stored in the printer information storage unit 320 to the information processing terminal 200 that has resumed communication (step S33).

The management unit 210 of the information processing apparatus 200 converts the received printer information into the second server 100.
(Step S34).

When receiving the printer information, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 changes the registration information (printer information table 132) for the printer 300 (step S35). Specifically, the management unit 110 searches the printer information table 132 for a printer ID included in the printer information received from the information processing terminal 200. Then, the IP address 1322 associated with the searched printer ID 1321 is updated (overwritten) with the IP address included in the received printer information.

With the above processing, even when the IP address assigned to the printer 300 is changed, the printer information table 132 managed by the second server 100 can be appropriately updated.

Further, for example, when the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is deleted, the second server 100 registers the registration information about the information processing terminal 200 (
The terminal information table 131) may be updated.

FIG. 13 (lower part) is a flowchart showing processing when the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is deleted.

As shown in the figure, when the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is deleted (step S41), the management unit 210 of the information processing terminal 200 deletes the version information stored in the terminal information storage unit 220. To do.

Subsequently, the management unit 210 indicates that the printer driver has been deleted, along with the terminal ID.
Is notified to the server 100 (step S42).

Then, upon receiving a notification from the information processing terminal 200, the management unit 110 of the second server 100 changes registration information (terminal information table 131) regarding the information processing terminal 200 (
Step S43). Specifically, the management unit 110 searches the terminal information table 131 for the terminal ID received from the information processing terminal 200. Then, the printer driver version information 1314 associated with the searched terminal ID 1311 is converted into invalid data (for example, “
None ”).

Through the above processing, even when the printer driver installed in the information processing terminal 200 is deleted, the terminal information table 131 managed by the second server 100 can be appropriately changed.

It is a hardware block diagram of the network system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of a 1st server. It is a figure which shows an example of the schematic data structure of a company management table. It is a figure which shows an example of the schematic data structure of the program management table in a 1st server. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of a 2nd server, an information processing terminal, and a printer. It is a figure which shows an example of the schematic data structure of a terminal information table. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic data structure of a printer information table. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the schematic data structure of the program management table in a 2nd server. It is a figure which shows an example of the schematic data structure of a user management table. It is a timing chart which shows a registration process. It is a timing chart which shows a version update process. It is a timing chart which shows fraud detection processing. (Upper part) It is a timing chart which shows a process when there is a change in the IP address of a printer. (Lower) A timing chart showing processing when a printer driver installed in an information processing terminal is deleted.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Network system, 50 ... Local network, 60 ... Global network, 100 ... 2nd server, 110 ... Management part (2nd server)
120 ... Fraud detection unit 130 ... Storage unit (second server) 131 ... Terminal information table 132 ... Printer information table 133 ... Program management table (second server) 134... User management table 200. Information processing terminal 21
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 0 ... Management part (information processing terminal), 220 ... Terminal information storage part, 230 ... Printer driver part, 300 ... Printer, 310 ... Management part (printer), 320 ... Printer Information storage unit, 330 ... firmware unit, 400 ... first server, 410
... service providing unit, 420 ... storage unit (first server), 421 ... company management table, 422 ... program management table (first server).

Claims (5)

A first server on the service providing side, a second server on the service receiving side, a plurality of printer hosts connected to the local network on the second server side, and connected to the local network A network system having a plurality of printers,
The second server is
Storage means for storing version information about printer drivers installed on the plurality of printer hosts; firmware installed on the plurality of printers;
Using the version information, version management means for periodically inquiring the first server about the presence or absence of the latest version of the printer driver or firmware, and
The first server is
Storage means for storing the latest version of the printer driver and firmware;
If the latest version of the storage means is a newer version than the version indicated by the version information transmitted from the second server, the printer driver or firmware of the latest version of the storage means is stored in the second server. And providing means for providing
The version management means of the second server is:
When the latest version of the printer driver is provided, the printer host is notified that the latest version of the printer driver has been provided, and
If the latest version of firmware is provided, send the latest version of firmware to the printer;
The printer host is
Accepting means for accepting an instruction from the user as to whether or not to acquire the latest version of the printer driver when the notification is accepted;
A printer driver managing unit that acquires and installs the latest version of the printer driver from the second server when receiving an instruction to be acquired by the receiving unit;
The printer is
Firmware management means for installing the latest version of firmware transmitted from the second server,
A network system characterized by this. The network system according to claim 1,
The storage means of the second server is
In association with version information about firmware installed in the plurality of printers, IP addresses of the plurality of printers in the local network are stored,
The printer firmware management means includes:
When there is a change in the IP address of the printer in the local network, the changed IP address is transmitted to the second server via the printer host,
The version management means of the second server is
The changed IP address transmitted from the printer is used as the IP address stored in the storage means.
Change to P address,
A network system characterized by this. The network system according to claim 1 or 2,
Printer driver management means of the printer host includes
When the installed printer driver is deleted, the second server is notified of the deletion,
The version management means of the second server is
Updating version information about the printer driver installed on the printer host;
A network system characterized by this. A server device that enjoys the service from a predetermined server device that provides the service,
A plurality of printer hosts and a plurality of printers are connected to the local network on the server device side.
Storage means for storing version information about printer drivers installed on the plurality of printer hosts; firmware installed on the plurality of printers;
Using the version information, version management means for periodically inquiring the predetermined server device for the presence of the latest version of the printer driver or firmware, and
The version management means includes
When the latest version of the printer driver is provided from the predetermined server device, the printer host is notified that the latest version of the printer driver has been provided,
If the latest version of firmware is provided, send the latest version of firmware to the printer for installation;
A server device characterized by that. A printer host connected to a second server that enjoys the service from a first server that provides the service and a plurality of printers via a local network and capable of controlling the plurality of printers;
When the second server notifies that the latest version of the printer driver has been provided from the first server to the second server, an instruction as to whether to acquire the latest version of the printer driver is issued. Accepting means to accept from the user;
A printer driver management unit that acquires and installs the latest version of the printer driver from the second server when receiving an instruction to be acquired by the reception unit;
Notification means for notifying the second server of completion of installation when installation of the printer driver is completed;
A printer host comprising:

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