The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for controlling a document output device. A control request for controlling the document output device is forwarded from a client device to a server via a network. The control request is stored at the server and communicated to the designated document output device in response to a polling request received via the network from a polling device associated with the designated document output device. Once received, the control request may be carried out at the designated document output device. The control request may include a request for the status of the document output device. The control request may also enable the control of a software function of the document output device, or the updating of firmware and software of the document output device.