A method and system for using a JAVA.TM. Custom ClassLoader to dynamically build and maintain a list of JAVA.TM. Class Files and resources that are used by applications that run in Point Of Sale (POS) terminals or other POS devices. The JAVA.TM. Class Files and resources are ordinarily obtained from a file server known as a controller. If communication between the POS terminal and the controller is lost, other POS devices dynamically collaborate in a "self healing" process to find and provide the required resources (e.g., JAVA.TM. Class Files) to run the POS terminal in an off-line mode. The present system is thus autonomic, self-learning and self-healing.