Implementing a Serverless Sign-up Process

The serverless sign-up process enables ISPs that do not want to use a sign-up server to provide customized installations to their users. A serverless sign-up process avoids the creation of a sign-up server by manually giving account information to the users.

Creating a Custom Package with a Serverless Sign-up Method

To create a custom browser package that includes a serverless sign-up method, specify the following in Stage 4 of the Internet Explorer Customization wizard:

• Serverless sign-up as your sign-up method.
• The path of the folder that contains your custom sign-up files. These files enable users to configure their computers for Internet services.
• The dial-up networking parameters that enable users to establish a connection for Internet services.

To ensure that your package installs correctly, the folder that contains your custom sign-up files must include the following:

• Signup.htm - This HTML page provides information about your Internet service and must include a link to the .ins file, which contains the configuration settings for your custom browser package.
• All other sign-up files - All related files, including .gif and .jpg graphic files, must be saved in the same folder with your custom sign-up files. For example, you may want to include your own customized versions of the Install.gif and Logohere.gif files.

For more information about building a browser package with custom sign-up files, see Chapter 12, "Preparing for the IEAK" and Chapter 15, "Running the Internet Explorer Customization Wizard."

Distributing a Custom Package with a Serverless Sign-up Method

Your custom package includes a configuration file, named Install.ins, that contains the settings you specified for your custom browser. Unlike the Internet sign-up server method, this .ins file contains no user-specific configuration information. When the user starts the sign-up program, a link from the local HTML page starts the .ins file. The user provides the user name, password, and connection information. Then, the .ins file configures the user's account to connect to the Internet using the custom browser.

Note The serverless sign-up process also includes an advanced option, which uses an ActiveX control to generate the .ins file on the fly to incorporate the user's information.