A method of remotely controlling a client device is provided within a network having a network server coupled to a first side of a firewall from a web server coupled to a second side of the firewall. The network server initiates a service request for the client device through the transmission of an HTTP request through a conventional TCP/IP socket in the firewall to the web server. The web server dynamically alters content that in turn may be accessed by a user, which may either be a human user or an automated user. In response to downloading the altered content, the user transmits an HTTP request to the web server, which causes the web server to alter content that may then be downloaded by the network server. The network server interprets this altered content so as to control the device accordingly.