Softwares
Client-Server Systems
Business models etc.
Computer-related Patents
What are Computer-related Inventions ?
Additional difficulties to get Computer-related Patents
Softwares
Softwares are often claimed as programs in patent applications. In Japan, "program" is a patentable category as well as computer-readable medium. However, in a specification, it is required to express detailed relationship between the program and hardware such as CPU and memory.
Client-Server Systems
A client-Server System consists of one or more client computers and one or more server computers. Even if you have a patent of a "system" and a 3rd party only uses the client computer in the system, the 3rd party may not infringe the patent. It is important to get patents of (a) the client computers or a program used in the client computers, and/or (b) the servers.
Business models
In Japan, business models/methods without any technical aspects are not patentable. However, a network system that performs a business model/method is patentable.
Choose a good attorney
Some know the tips, the others do not know. You should choose a good attorney.