A network based solution is described associated with the extraction, transfer, storage, and processing of application settings, files and other data from a subscriber's source computer-based device to a server system, and the subsequent transfer of the application settings, files, and other data from the server system onto a target computer-based device. A server downloads a software module onto the user's computer-based device. A series of pre-stored instructions commensurate with selected settings, files and data are sent from a remote server to the software module to uncover, extract, collect, and return to allocated storage space of the server the sought information. Once the application settings, files and other data are stored within the remote server system, they can be retrieved by the subscriber for purposes of restoring a crashed system, transference to a repaired or new system, converted for use on a new differing device or updated to reflect changes in software. Furthermore, the present invention allows for future compatibility of formats, programs, platforms or device configurations based on periodic updating of the instruction scripts without any modifications to the downloaded software module.