A method is provided for reconnecting a telephone modem with a reduced delay by reducing a time associated with retraining. A wireline communication connection is initialized by a telephone modem to train a set of parameters. The parameters are stored in a memory structure. The connection is used for communication, and is then terminated. At a later time, the connection is reestablished by accessing the parameters from memory and using them to reconnect the modem with a reduced set-up delay. Another method involves coupling to a first physical layer and establishing a session with a server, and then decoupling from the first physical layer while maintaining the session. Later, the session is resumed using a second physical layer. At least one of the physical layers involves a local interface unit that includes a landline connection to a WAN.

Apparatus and associated methods are provided which allow a remote user to maintain a virtual session with a server. A virtual session allows a remote and possibly mobile user to maintain a virtual presence in an office environment without actually being present. Using the present invention, a remote user can access a central application program such as an Internet service provider, a database system, an inventory system or billing system. Likewise, the remote user can receive calls and other forms of communications as though he or she were present in an office environment. A virtual session does not require a physical connection to be continuously present in order to provide a virtual connectivity. This is especially important for mobile applications where the remote user may incur long distance and/or wireless toll charges. Also, methods are presented to allow a remote unit to rapidly reconnect in a transparent and seamless way without burdening the user with the need to connect and reconnect or to upload and download information. Related methods are provided to allow the virtual session to be established, operated and maintained.