A server and method is provided that allows a computer configured for a different
network to access a network without hardware or software configuration changes
to the computer. The invention allows users to plug into the network and access
not only the network that their computer is connected to but also to the Internet,
the Worldwide Web and the individual's email. This is particularly useful to visitors
to multiple unit buildings such as hotels. Not only can the service be provided
by the server and method of the invention connected to and carried out on the network
but it does not require manual configuration changes to the computer or new software
or hardware for the computer. In situations where access is to be controlled this
is done through a registration driver and module. Only registered guests have access
to the network and the services and access it provides. The invention determines
and assigns addressing information to properly direct traffic to and from the computer.
The invention provides for the storage and maintenance of the addressing data.
Registration status information and billing information is collected and maintained
to determine access to and billing for services.