MIS420-Chapter 7 Choosing a Network

Client/Server Networks

1. Netware 3.11
2. Netware 3.12
3. Netware 4.01
4. NetWare 4.1
5. Netware 4.11
6. Windows NT 3.51
7. Windows 95

What's so great about NetWare?

• bypasses DOS (not limited by DOS)
• uses dedicated file servers
• clients can be DOS-based, Macintoshes, or OS/2 based
• uses an efficient structure for organizing files (directory hashing & elevator seeking)
• Btrieve - special filing system
• SFT (System Fault Tolerance)

Disadvantages of NetWare

• more complicated than peer-to-peer
• requires a dedicated server
• software is more expensive
• more complicated to install

Netware 3.12

• versions that support 5,10,25,50,100 & 250 users
• server must be at least a '386; should have at least 16MB of RAM

NetWare 4.1

• more expensive than 3.12
• allows up to 1000 users per server
• uses NDS (Netware Directory Services) rather than the bindery which integrates servers

NetWare 4.11

• major change is the integration of Internet/intranet features
• integrates better with TCP/IP

Windows NT Server 3.51

• supports an unlimited number of users
• server must be at least a '486 with 16 MB (preferably 32 MB) of RAM
• cheaper than NetWare (requires additional purchase of Client Licenses)
• often included as part of Microsoft BackOffice

Windows NT Server 4.0

• includes a Win '95 type interface
• easier to install

Peer-to-Peer Networks

Why peer-to-peer networks are easier to use

• do not require a dedicated server
• fewer variables/features to worry about
• most peer-to-peer networks can be purchased as a kit
• easier to install

Drawbacks of peer-to-peer networks

• often subject to limitations of DOS
• more difficult to administer
• more expensive for larger networks
• not as efficient for file and program sharing

Artisoft's LANtastic

• easy to install
• can set up a dedicated server
• must use LANtastic NICs or NE2000 compatible cards
• includes built-in e-mail program
• often bundled with LANtastic PowerSuite tools

Windows for Workgroups

• includes enhanced version of File Manager that allows sharing drives and connecting to other computers
• cut/copy/paste across the network
• Microsoft Mail & Schedule
• best to only network Windows machines together

Windows 95

• auto detects most network cards (PnP)
• uses Network Neighborhood for accessing network
• can connect to other Windows computers as well as NetWare

Other Network Operating Systems

• Microsoft LAN Manager (uses OS/2)
• IBM's OS/2 LAN Server
• Banyan Systems Vines
• UNIX