Method and system for providing status indication and control to a computer network user

The present invention relates generally to the field of computer networks and more particularly to a method and system for providing status indication and control to a user of a secure network connection, such as a secure Internet connection. A method and system for providing status indication to a control panel displayed on a user's computer screen at all times which allows the user to sign on and off independently of any specific secure function, and utilizes both graphics and text to clearly indicate the current status of a secure connection. Additionally, entitlements or privileges associated with the secure connection and a count down of the remaining period of time during which the status of the secure connection will be in effect, are also displayed. A user may extend the effective time of the secure connection, or cancel the secure session and unequivocally sign off from all related services with a single click of the button.