Virtual directory

• US 20020112028A1
• Filed: 02/09/2001
• Published: 08/15/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 11/17/2000
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: HECK.com LLC
• Original Assignee: HECK.com LLC
• Inventors: Colwill, Ronald W. Jr.
• Granted Patent: US 7,149,743 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 709/218
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 16/951 Indexing; Web crawling techniques
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 16/954 Navigation, e.g. using categorised browsing
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 707/99942 Manipulating data structure, e.g. compression, compaction, compilation
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 707/99943 Generating database or data structure, e.g. via user interface
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 707/99944 Object-oriented database structure
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 707/99945 Object-oriented database structure processing

Abstract

A method, system and apparatus for providing a virtual directory to facilitate a quick, direct search for a web site on the Internet. A user is provided with an extensive number of first level search categories. By clicking on a first level search category, the user is linked to a plurality of corresponding second level search categories which are pre-selected by a service provider. By clicking on a second level search category, the user is linked to a plurality of corresponding third level search categories, which are also pre-selected by the service provider. The third level search categories are preferably URLs corresponding to the search. The user can click on any one of the URLs to access a web site. A button is provided on a bar of the web site by which a user can return to one of the first or second level search categories directly from the current web page bypassing all the intermediate web pages the user reviewed. The virtual directory also provides a search engine directory whereby a user can switch from one search engine to another in order to complete a search without having to retype a search category.

Claims

1. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a first interface comprising,

at least 1,000 first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to no more than 30 second level search categories,

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) pointing and clicking on a first level search category;

(iii) receiving a display of a second interface comprising a plurality of said second level search categories corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each of said second level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to no more than 30 third level search categories;

(iv) pointing and clicking on a second level search category;

(v) receiving a display of a third interface comprising a plurality of said third level search categories corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each of said third level search categories is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) pointing and clicking on a third level search category; and

(vii) receiving a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

(i) pointing and clicking on an alphabet letter;

(ii) receiving a display of a group of said first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) pointing and clicking on a first level search category from said group of said first level search categories.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising pointing and clicking on said scroll bar to locate a first level search category.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:

(i) pointing and clicking on an alphabet letter;

(ii) receiving a display of a group of said first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) pointing and clicking on a first level search category from said group of said first level search categories.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising pointing and clicking on said scroll bar to locate a first level search category.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

21. The method of claim 14, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

26. The method of claim 14, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

30. The method of claim 27, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

31. The method of claim 27, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

32. The method of claim 27, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

34. The method of claim 33, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

35. The method of claim 32, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

36. The method of claim 35, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

37. The method of claim 27, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

41. The method of claim 38, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

44. The method of claim 41, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

46. The method of claim 38, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

49. The method of claim 47, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

50. The method of claim 47, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

52. The method of claim 51, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

53. The method of claim 50, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

54. The method of claim 53, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

55. The method of claim 47, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

58. The method of claim 57, further comprising:

(i) pointing and clicking on an alphabet letter;

(ii) receiving a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) pointing and clicking on a search category selected from said group of search categories.

59. The method of claim 56, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

60. The method of claim 59, further comprising pointing and clicking on said scroll bar to locate a search category.

61. The method of claim 56, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

63. The method of claim 62, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

64. The method of claim 61, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

65. The method of claim 64, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

66. The method of claim 56, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said virtual directory.

68. The method of claim 67, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

69. The method of claim 68, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

70. The method of claim 67, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

71. The method of claim 70, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

113. The method of claim 112, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

116. The method of claim 115, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

14. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category,

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) pointing and clicking on a first level search category;

(iii) receiving a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(iv) pointing and clicking on a second level search category;

(v) receiving a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) pointing and clicking on a third level search category; and

(vii) receiving a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

27. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category, and

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories;

(ii) pointing and clicking on an alphabet letter;

(iii) receiving a display of a group of first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter;

(iv) pointing and clicking on a first level search category selected from said group of first level search categories;

(v) receiving a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(vi) pointing and clicking on a second level search category;

(vii) receiving a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(viii) pointing and clicking on a third level search category; and

(ix) receiving a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

38. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) pointing and clicking on said scroll bar to locate a first level search category;

(iii) pointing and clicking on said first level search category;

(iv) receiving a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(v) pointing and clicking on a second level search category;

(vi) receiving a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vii) pointing and clicking on a third level search category; and

(viii) receiving a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

47. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a first interface comprising a plurality of first level search categories, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category;

(ii) pointing and clicking on a first level search category;

(iii) receiving a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(iv) pointing and clicking on a second level search category;

(v) receiving a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) pointing and clicking on a third level search category; and

(vii) receiving a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

56. A method for pointing and clicking through a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) pointing and clicking on a search category; and

(iii) receiving a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

67. A method for returning to a virtual directory, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) pointing and clicking on said return bar to return to said virtual directory.

72. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a first interface comprising,

at least 1,000 first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to no more than 30 second level search categories,

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) receiving a click command to select a first level search category;

(iii) transmitting a display of a second interface comprising a plurality of said second level search categories corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each of said second level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to no more than 30 third level search categories;

(iv) receiving a click command to select a second level search category;

(v) transmitting a display of a third interface comprising a plurality of said third level search categories corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each of said third level search categories is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) receiving a click command to select a third level search category;

and

(vii) transmitting a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

73. The method of claim 72, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmitting a display of a group of said first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receiving a click command to select a first level search category from said group of said first level search categories.

74. The method of claim 72, further comprising receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a first level search category.

75. The method of claim 72, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

76. The method of claim 72, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

77. The method of claim 72, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

78. The method of claim 72, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

79. The method of claim 72, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

80. The method of claim 79, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

81. The method of claim 80, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said third interface.

82. The method of claim 79, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

83. The method of claim 82, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

84. The method of claim 72, further comprising receiving said click commands from a mouse.

85. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category,

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) receiving a click command to select a first level search category;

(iii) transmitting a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(iv) receiving a click command to select a second level search category;

(v) transmitting a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) receiving a click command to select a third level search category;

and

(vii) transmitting a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

86. The method of claim 85, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmitting a display of a group of said first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receiving a click command to select a first level search category from said group of said first level search categories.

87. The method of claim 85, further comprising receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a first level search category.

88. The method of claim 85, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

89. The method of claim 85, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

90. The method of claim 85, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

91. The method of claim 85, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

92. The method of claim 85, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

93. The method of claim 92, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

94. The method of claim 93, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said third interface.

95. The method of claim 92, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

96. The method of claim 95, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

97. The method of claim 85, further comprising receiving said click commands from a mouse.

98. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in alphabetical order in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category, and

alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said first level search categories;

(ii) receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(iii) transmitting a display of a group of first level search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter;

(iv) receiving a click command to select a first level search category selected from said group of first level search categories;

(v) transmitting a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(vi) receiving a click command to select a second level search category;

(vii) transmitting a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(viii) receiving a click command to select a third level search category;

and

(ix) transmitting a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

99. The method of claim 98, wherein said second interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said second level search categories.

100. The method of claim 98, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

101. The method of claim 98, wherein said third interface comprises said alphabet letters arranged adjacent said third level search categories.

102. The method of claim 98, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

103. The method of claim 98, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

104. The method of claim 103, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

105. The method of claim 104, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said third interface.

106. The method of claim 103, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

107. The method of claim 106, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

108. The method of claim 98, further comprising receiving said click commands from a mouse.

109. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a first interface comprising,

a plurality of first level search categories arranged in a single web page, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category, and

a scroll bar adjacent said first level search categories for navigating through said first level search categories;

(ii) receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a first level search category;

(iii) receiving a click command to select said first level search category;

(iv) transmitting a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(v) receiving a click command to select a second level search category;

(vi) transmitting a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vii) receiving a click command to select a third level search category;

and

(viii) transmitting a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

110. The method of claim 109, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

111. The method of claim 109, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

112. The method of claim 109, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

114. The method of claim 113, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said third interface.

115. The method of claim 112, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

117. The method of claim 109, further comprising receiving said click commands from a mouse.

119. The method of claim 118, wherein said first level search category is displayed in said second interface adjacent said second level search categories.

120. The method of claim 118, wherein a search path is displayed in said third interface adjacent said third level search categories.

121. The method of claim 118, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

122. The method of claim 121, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

123. The method of claim 122, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said third interface.

124. The method of claim 121, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

125. The method of claim 124, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

126. The method of claim 118, further comprising receiving said click commands from a mouse.

128. The method of claim 127, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

129. The method of claim 128, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmitting a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receiving a click command to select a search category from said group of search categories.

130. The method of claim 127, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

131. The method of claim 130, further comprising receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search category.

132. The method of claim 127, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

133. The method of claim 132, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

134. The method of claim 133, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said interface.

135. The method of claim 132, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

136. The method of claim 135, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

137. The method of claim 127, further comprising receiving said click command from a mouse.

139. The method of claim 138, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

140. The method of claim 139, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said interface.

141. The method of claim 138, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

142. The method of claim 141, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said web page without said return bar.

144. The remote device of claim 143, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

145. The remote device of claim 144, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) transmit a click command selecting an alphabet letter;

(ii) receive a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) transmit a click command selecting a search category selected from said group of search categories.

146. The remote device of claim 143, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

147. The remote device of claim 146, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to transmit a click command controlling said scroll bar to locate a search category.

148. The remote device of claim 143, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

149. The remote device of claim 148, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

150. The remote device of claim 149, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to transmit a click command from said return button or icon to return to a virtual directory.

151. The remote device of claim 148, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

152. The remote device of claim 151, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to transmit a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

153. The remote device of claim 143, further comprising a mouse to point and click through a virtual directory.

155. The remote device of claim 154, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

156. The remote device of claim 155, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to transmit a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

157. The remote device of claim 154, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

158. The remote device of claim 157, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to transmit a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

160. The virtual directory host server of claim 159, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

161. The virtual directory host server of claim 160, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) receive a click command selecting an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmit a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receive a click command to select a search category from said group of search categories.

162. The virtual directory host server of claim 159, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

163. The virtual directory host server of claim 162, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to receive a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search category.

164. The virtual directory host server of claim 159, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

165. The virtual directory host server of claim 164, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

166. The virtual directory host server of claim 165, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) receive a click command from said return button or icon to return to a virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting a display of said interface.

167. The virtual directory host server of claim 164, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

168. The virtual directory host server of claim 167, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) receive a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmit a display of said web page without said return bar.

169. The virtual directory host server of claim 159, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to receive said click command from a mouse.

171. The virtual directory host server of claim 170, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

172. The virtual directory host server of claim 171, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) receive a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmit a display of said interface.

173. The virtual directory host server of claim 170, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

174. The virtual directory host server of claim 173, wherein the processor is further operative with the program to:

(i) receive a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmit a display of said web page without said return bar.

176. The computer readable medium of claim 175, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

177. The computer readable medium of claim 176, further comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) code for receiving a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) code for transmitting a click command to select a search category selected from said group of search categories.

178. The computer readable medium of claim 175, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

179. The computer readable medium of claim 178, further comprising code for transmitting a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search category.

180. The computer readable medium of claim 175, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

181. The computer readable medium of claim 180, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

182. The computer readable medium of claim 181, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said return button or icon to return to a virtual directory.

183. The computer readable medium of claim 180, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

184. The computer readable medium of claim 183, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

185. The computer readable medium of claim 175, further comprising code for transmitting said click command from a mouse.

187. The computer readable medium of claim 186, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

188. The computer readable medium of claim 187, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory.

189. The computer readable medium of claim 186, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

190. The computer readable medium of claim 189, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

192. The computer readable medium of claim 191, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search categories.

193. The computer readable medium of claim 192, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) code for transmitting a display of a group of search categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) code for receiving a click command to select a search category selected from said group of search categories.

194. The computer readable medium of claim 191, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search categories for navigating through said search categories.

195. The computer readable medium of claim 194, further comprising code for receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search category.

196. The computer readable medium of claim 191, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said internet web site.

197. The computer readable medium of claim 196, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

198. The computer readable medium of claim 197, further comprising code for:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to a virtual directory; and

(ii) transmit said interface.

199. The computer readable medium of claim 196, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

200. The computer readable medium of claim 199, further comprising code for:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmit said web page without said return bar.

201. The computer readable medium of claim 191, further comprising code for receiving said click command from a mouse.

118. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a first interface comprising a plurality of first level search categories, wherein each of said first level search categories is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one second level search category;

(ii) receiving a click command to select a first level search category;

(iii) transmitting a display of a second interface comprising at least one second level search category corresponding to said first level search category, wherein each second level search category is configured for pointing and clicking to link to at least one third level search category;

(iv) receiving a click command to select a second level search category;

(v) transmitting a display of a third interface comprising at least one third level search category corresponding to said second level search category, wherein each third level search category is a uniform research locator configured for pointing and clicking to link to an internet web site;

(vi) receiving a click command to select a third level search category; and

(vii) transmitting a display of a web page of said internet web site corresponding to said third level search category.

127. A method for providing a virtual directory to a desired internet web site relating to a search, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) receiving a click command to select a search category; and

(iii) transmitting a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

138. A method for returning to a virtual directory, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page;

(ii) receiving a click command from said return bar to return to said virtual directory; and

(iii) transmitting a display of an interface from said virtual directory.

143. A remote device for receiving web content from a virtual directory host server, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) receive a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) transmit a click command selecting a search category; and

(iii) receive a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

154. A remote device for returning to a virtual directory, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) receive a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) transmit a click command from said return bar to return to said virtual directory.

159. A virtual directory host server, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) transmit a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) receive a click command to select a search category; and

(iii) transmit a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

170. A virtual directory host server, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) transmit a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page;

(ii) receive a click command from said return bar to return to a virtual directory; and

(iii) transmitting a display of an interface from said virtual directory.

175. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for receiving web content at a remote device, comprising:

(i) code for receiving a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) code for transmitting a click command to select a search category; and

(iii) code for receiving a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

186. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for returning to a virtual directory, comprising:

(i) code for receiving a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) code for transmitting a click command from said return bar to return to said virtual directory.

191. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for presenting, through a virtual directory host server, web content to a remote device, comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search categories;

(ii) code for receiving a click command to select a search category; and

(iii) code for transmitting a display of a web page of an internet web site corresponding to said search category.

202. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for returning to a virtual directory, comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a display of a web page of an internet web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page;

(ii) code for receiving a click command from said return bar to return to said virtual directory; and

(iii) code for transmitting an interface from said virtual directory.

203. The computer readable medium of claim 202, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

204. The computer readable medium of claim 203, further comprising code for:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said virtual directory; and

(ii) transmitting said interface.

205. The computer readable medium of claim 202, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

206. The computer readable medium of claim 205, further comprising code for:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting said web page without said return bar.

207. A method for searching using a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) typing a search topic in a text field;

(iii) pointing and clicking on a search engine category; and

(iv) receiving a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

208. The method of claim 207, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

209. The method of claim 208, further comprising:

(i) pointing and clicking on an alphabet letter;

(ii) receiving a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) pointing and clicking on a search engine category selected from said group of search engine categories.

210. The method of claim 207, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

211. The method of claim 210, further comprising pointing and clicking on said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

212. The method of claim 207, further comprising accessing said search engine directory by pointing and clicking on a search button or icon.

213. The method of claim 207, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

214. The method of claim 213, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

215. The method of claim 214, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

216. The method of claim 213, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

217. The method of claim 216, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

218. The method of claim 207, further comprising using a mouse to point and click through said search engine directory.

219. A method for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) receiving a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) pointing and clicking on said return bar to return to said search engine directory.

220. The method of claim 219, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

221. The method of claim 220, further comprising pointing and clicking on said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

222. The method of claim 219, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

223. The method of claim 222, further comprising pointing and clicking on said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

225. The method of claim 224, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

226. The method of claim 225, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmitting a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receiving a click command to select a search engine category from said group of search engine categories.

227. The method of claim 224, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

228. The method of claim 227, further comprising receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

229. The method of claim 224, further comprising receiving a click command from a search button or icon to access said search engine directory.

230. The method of claim 224, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

231. The method of claim 230, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

232. The method of claim 231, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) transmitting said interface from said search engine directory.

233. The method of claim 230, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

234. The method of claim 233, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting said web page without said return bar.

235. The method of claim 224, further comprising receiving said click command from a mouse.

237. The method of claim 226, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

238. The method of claim 227, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) transmitting said interface from said search engine directory.

239. The method of claim 226, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

240. The method of claim 229, further comprising:

(i) receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmitting said web page without said return bar.

242. The remote device of claim 241, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

243. The remote device of claim 242, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) transmit a click command selecting an alphabet letter;

(ii) receive a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) transmit a click command selecting a search engine category from said group of search engine categories.

244. The remote device of claim 241, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

245. The remote device of claim 244, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command controlling said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

246. The remote device of claim 241, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command from a search button or icon to access said search engine directory.

247. The remote device of claim 241, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

248. The remote device of claim 247, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

249. The remote device of claim 248, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

250. The remote device of claim 247, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

251. The remote device of claim 250, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

252. The remote device of claim 241, further comprising a mouse to point and click through said search engine directory.

254. The remote device of claim 253, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

255. The remote device of claim 254, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

256. The remote device of claim 253, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

257. The method of claim 256, wherein the processor is further operative to transmit a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

259. The virtual directory host server of claim 258, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

260. The virtual directory host server of claim 259, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) receive a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) transmit a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) receive a click command to select a search engine category from said group of search engine categories.

261. The virtual directory host server of claim 258, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

262. The virtual directory host server of claim 261, wherein the processor is further operative to receive a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

263. The virtual directory host server of claim 258, wherein the processor is further operative to receive a click command from a search button or icon to access said search engine directory.

264. The virtual directory host server of claim 258, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

265. The virtual directory host server of claim 264, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

266. The virtual directory host server of claim 265, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) receive a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) transmit said interface from said search engine directory.

267. The virtual directory host server of claim 264, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

268. The virtual directory host server of claim 267, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) receive a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmit said web page without said return bar.

269. The virtual directory host server of claim 258, wherein the processor is further operative to receive said click command from a mouse.

271. The virtual directory host server of claim 270, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

272. The virtual directory host server of claim 271, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) receive a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) transmit said interface from said search engine directory.

273. The virtual directory host server of claim 270, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

274. The virtual directory host server of claim 273, wherein the processor is further operative to:

(i) receive a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) transmit said web page without said return bar.

276. The computer readable medium of claim 275, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

277. The computer readable medium of claim 276, further comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) code for receiving a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) code for transmitting a click command to select a search engine category from said group of search engine categories.

278. The computer readable medium of claim 275, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

279. The computer readable medium of claim 278, further comprising code for transmitting a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

280. The computer readable medium of claim 275, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from a search button or icon to access said search engine directory.

281. The computer readable medium of claim 275, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

282. The computer readable medium of claim 281, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

283. The computer readable medium of claim 282, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

284. The computer readable medium of claim 281, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

285. The computer readable medium of claim 284, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

286. The computer readable medium of claim 275, code for transmitting said click command from a mouse.

288. The computer readable medium of claim 287, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

289. The computer readable medium of claim 288, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory.

290. The computer readable medium of claim 287, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

291. The computer readable medium of claim 290, further comprising code for transmitting a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

293. The computer readable medium of claim 292, wherein said interface further comprises alphabet letters A through Z arranged adjacent said search engine categories.

294. The computer readable medium of claim 293, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command to select an alphabet letter;

(ii) code for transmitting a display of a group of search engine categories corresponding to said alphabet letter; and

(iii) code for receiving a click command to select a search engine category from said group of search engine categories.

295. The computer readable medium of claim 292, wherein said interface further comprises a scroll bar adjacent said search engine categories for navigating through said search engine categories.

296. The computer readable medium of claim 295, further comprising code for receiving a click command to control said scroll bar to locate a search engine category.

297. The computer readable medium of claim 292, further comprising code for receiving a click command from a search button or icon to access said search engine directory.

298. The computer readable medium of claim 292, wherein a return bar is displayed adjacent said web page of said search engine web site.

299. The computer readable medium of claim 298, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

300. The computer readable medium of claim 299, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) code for transmitting said interface from said search engine directory.

301. The computer readable medium of claim 298, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon for hiding said return bar.

302. The computer readable medium of claim 301, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) code for transmitting said web page without said return bar.

303. The computer readable medium of claim 292, further comprising code for receiving said click command from a mouse.

224. A method for providing a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) receiving a search topic from a text field;

(iii) receiving a click command to select a search engine category; and

(iv) transmitting a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

236. A method for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) transmitting a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) receiving a click command from said return bar to return to said search engine directory; and

(iii) transmitting an interface from said search engine directory.

241. A remote device capable of browsing a search engine directory, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) receive a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) receive a search topic in a text field;

(iii) transmit a click command selecting a search engine category; and

(iv) receive a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

253. A remote device for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) receive a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) transmit a click command from said return bar to return to said search engine directory.

258. A virtual directory host server providing a search engine directory, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) transmit a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) receive a search topic from a text field;

(iii) receive a click command to select a search engine category; and

(iv) transmit a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

270. A virtual directory host server for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor connected to the storage device,

the storage device storing a program for controlling the processor;

the processor operative with the program to,

(i) transmit a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page;

(ii) receive a click command from said return bar to return to said search engine directory; and

(iii) transmit an interface from said search engine directory.

275. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for receiving web content at a remote device, comprising:

(i) code for receiving a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) code for transmitting a search topic from a text field;

(iii) code for transmitting a click command to select a search engine category; and

(iv) code for receiving a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

287. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) code for receiving a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) code for transmitting a click command from said return bar to return to said search engine directory.

292. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for presenting, through a virtual directory host server, web content to a remote device, comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a display of at least one interface comprising a plurality of search engine categories;

(ii) code for receiving a search topic from a text field;

(iii) code for receiving a click command to select a search engine category; and

(iv) code for transmitting a display of a web page from a search engine web site corresponding to said search topic.

304. A computer readable medium having computer executable software code stored thereon for returning to a search engine directory, comprising:

(i) code for transmitting a display of a web page of a search engine web site comprising a return bar displayed adjacent said web page; and

(ii) code for receiving a click command from said return bar to return to said search engine directory; and

(iii) code for transmitting an interface from said search engine directory.

305. The computer readable medium of claim 304, wherein said return bar comprises a return button or icon.

306. The computer readable medium of claim 305, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command from said return button or icon to return to said search engine directory; and

(ii) code for transmitting said interface from said search engine directory.

307. The computer readable medium of claim 304, wherein said return bar includes a hide button or icon to hide said return bar.

308. The computer readable medium of claim 307, further comprising:

(i) code for receiving a click command from said hide button or icon to hide said return bar; and

(ii) code for transmitting said web page without said return bar.