Enhancing NetWare with IBM LAN Products

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Article Info
Author IBM LAN Systems
Date 1994-12
OS Version IBM OS/2 Warp 3
Companion File N/A
Source [1]
December 1994
IBM LAN Systems
Austin, Texas

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Enhancing NetWare with IBM LAN Systems Products

1994 International Business Machines Corporation

Trademarks

The following terms denoted by an asterisk (*) are trademarks or registered trademarks of IBM Corporation:

IBM, Multimedia Presentation Manager/2, AIX, DB2, Distributed Database Connection Services/2, Distributed Relational Database Architecture, LAN Server, NetView, AS/400, DATABASE 2, DB2/2, DRDA, OS/2, SAA, System/390, ADSTAR, BESTeam, Workplace Shell, GDDM, LAN Distance, SQL/400, AIX/6000, PROFS, Person to Person, Time and Place, Officevision.

Trademarks denoted by double asterisk (**) are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Introduction

As a Novell** user, you are already aware that NetWare** is one of the more popular local area network operating systems available today. It offers optimized file and print services highly focused on performance, and enjoys a great deal of acceptance in the network community. NetWare users have the ability to share files with each other, obtain large amounts of on-line data storage, share applications, and access centralized printers on their networks.

But beyond the basic network uses of shared file and print, there are a wealth of IBM products to help companies make even better use of their investment in networking. This unique white paper was written to help network administrators and systems integrators understand more about IBM's NetWare-compatible local area network products, and how those products can help your Novell networks become more productive.

IBM LAN Systems Overview

The IBM* local area network products benefit from decades of experience with host networking, communications protocols, operating systems and mission critical applications. IBM software and hardware is a critical link in almost every major computing system - from the Olympics to the space program, from accounting to golf tournaments.

All of these applications have something in common. It is critical that they be secure, reliable, and maintainable. These same criteria must apply to all areas of business computing, no matter where the data or the processing resides. Local area networks, systems, and applications need to be deployed using the same industrial strength applications, integration, security, and investment protection that large systems have historically provided.

To use a local area network for applications that have historically been delegated to larger non-distributed systems, it is critical that the LAN be viewed as something more than just a collection of cabling, servers, printers, applications and data. Rather, the network must be viewed as an entity, a complete system. This unique view is the cornerstone of IBM's "LAN as a System" philosophy. When viewed as a logical entity, the LAN takes on more capabilities than the sum of all the components on the network might otherwise provide.

All of the IBM LAN products are engineered with the total system in mind. Integration between components of the system, security, and the use of open standards all assure that IBM's network products are able to provide the stability and performance required for distributed networking.

LAN Products for NetWare

With the view of the LAN as a system rather than a collection of components, every effort is made to integrate products into the network in the best way possible. Because of this, IBM network products can provide NetWare users with industrial strength services and applications. With solutions for most every network need, IBM LAN software delivers products with industry standards, ease of use, and investment protection.

The Integrating Platform - OS/2 Warp Version 3

The cornerstone of IBM LAN products is the award winning OS/2 Warp Version 3*. As the first and most popular 32-bit operating system for IBM and IBM-compatible PCs, OS/2 delivers a wealth of features making it an ideal platform for implementing networked applications for both clients and servers.

At the core of OS/2 is a full 32-bit data path and the ability to access up to 512MB of memory, removing the 640KB limitations of DOS and DOS/Windows**. Add to that true multitasking (not task time slicing), and you have an operating system that can perform database searches while still servicing network requests, communicate to hosts, attach to other servers using different protocols, or whatever your needs may be.

OS/2 provides the most robust client platform for NetWare, as well as the basis for integrating all of your network applications.

Workplace Shell

The heart of OS/2's graphical user interface is the Workplace Shell*. Workplace Shell is just that - a workplace for your data and applications. With its object interface, you can group both data and application icons in logical groupings that can all be opened with a single selection. Full drag and drop icons allow you to easily move, print, erase or launch objects.

This function is extended to the network because the Workplace Shell is LAN aware. The drag-and-drop features of the local desktop are the same for the network, and applications on the network. For example, printing to a LAN printer is very easy -- just drag the file onto the LAN printer icon and it will be printed on the LAN printer.

From the same desktop, you can run OS/2, Windows, and DOS applications all at the same time and all with true multitasking.

MEMORY AND PROCESSING

One of OS/2's prime benefits is the removal of the DOS and Windows 640KB addressing limit. With OS/2, applications can address up to 512MB of memory. All memory in the system can be used by applications without the use of time consuming extensions like EMS or XMS for memory access. That means faster application execution, room for more functionality within the application, and no need for complicated memory managers necessary to run today's client applications.

Beyond the ability to use all this memory, the multiprocessing capabilities of OS/2 mean that you are able to run multiple applications or processes concurrently. With OS/2 you really can print, fax, search a database, format a diskette and download a file all at the same time. And, with multiple threads available, an application can even have concurrent processing running for itself.

Finally, OS/2's application protection helps to keep errant programs from locking up the machine. If an application locks up, you can simply switch to the workplace shell and end that application.

Multimedia Support

For Multimedia needs, OS/2 provides built-in services with Multimedia Presentation Manager/2* that require no special hardware. The operating system also provides support for special video, sound adapters, and video capture hardware.

Multiple Protocols

If you have ever needed to add more than IPX**/SPX to your network clients, you know there may be difficulties resulting from the memory requirements. OS/2 is designed to handle multiple protocols. OS/2 can easily run TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, NetBIOS and 802.2 protocols concurrently - without adverse memory impacts or degradation in application performance. All of this makes the OS/2 platform a great choice for both client and server applications.

OS/2 even provides an efficient method for connecting to dissimilar networks. With support for multiple requesters, you can easily configure OS/2 to communicate with LAN Server and NetWare networks concurrently, using all the features that each client requester offers. If you have both LAN Server* and NetWare, OS/2 is an excellent way to provide connectivity to both network operating systems.

Communications and Host Access

Communications is the core of any network, and IBM offers a vast array of communications products. Whether you need multiple protocol support for OS/2, client to host gateways, or remote access, IBM offers the communications solutions to your problems.

Personal Communications/3270

Personal Communications/3270 (PC/3270) is an easily configurable program for providing host access for DOS, Windows and Windows for Workgroups PC clients. PC/3270 clients can use 3270 coax adapters, token ring, or gateways to access the host. Client to gateway communications can be provided by either IPX/SPX or TCP/IP. DOS sessions can be configured for the memory-conserving DOS CUT mode, or multi-session DFT (Distributed Function Terminal) mode. Windows 3270 emulation is in DFT mode, and can be configured for Graphical Data Display Manager (GDDM*) host graphics capabilities.

Communications Manager/2

Communications Manager/2 (CM/2) provides OS/2 users with a comprehensive host connectivity solution. CM/2 provides similar capability as NetWare for SAA*. With client/server computing there are often requirements for multiple active communications between various services, and OS/2's multitasking capabilities provide CM/2 with a solid base for concurrent, secure, high performance communications.

Communications Manager/2 also offers a distributed feature providing significant savings for LAN attached workstations, both in dollars and hard disk requirements. CM/2 offers 3270 emulation for accessing host systems, 5250 for AS/400* access, and ASCII terminal emulation. CM/2 provides a powerful SNA gateway, so workstations can communicate to hosts using SDLC, X.25, ISDN, Asynch, NetBIOS and 802.2.

With support for various protocols and network connections, multiple sessions, and host graphics capabilities, CM/2 provides a rich environment for client to host communications. APPC provides LU6.2 support for SNA applications, multiple concurrent links with parallel sessions, and full support for security.

LAN Resource Extension and Services

LAN Resource Extension and Services (LANRES) available for AS/400, VM and MVS, provides an interface for NetWare (versions 3.1x and 4.01) to IBM System/390 mainframes. This allows NetWare users access to access host resources, and the ability to provide centralized management of NetWare.

LANRES provides disk serving from S/390 disks using a set of NLM's on the NetWare server and a disk server on the host. The files can only be accessed by LANRES, but multiple NetWare servers can share the same LANRES disk in read-only mode.

LANRES also provides the ability to do host to LAN and LAN to host printing. Connections from the NetWare server to the host can be made directly to the host processor channel for maximum performance. Token ring or SNA gateways, SNA LU6.2, or TCP/IP can also be used for your host connections.

LAN Distance

On the road again? If you need to access your local area network when you are away from the office, LAN Distance* is the answer for you. LAN Distance is a software solution that lets your portable computer or remote PC access your Netware LAN as if it were on the network. It is the most powerful, flexible, and easy-to-use way to connect to any network you are authorized to access.

LAN Distance enables remote users on Windows or OS/2 PC's to run unmodified LAN applications and have concurrent multiple connections to the central office network or LAN-attached PCs. LAN Distance consists of two components - the remote client and the connection server. Any variety of connections between remote clients and connection servers can be configured for remote system access, LAN to LAN connections, and multi-port LAN access.

Implemented on OS/2, the connection server is available in either an 8-port version, or an unlimited port version. Connections can be made via sync or async, x.25 or ISDN. Remote clients can operate on Windows or OS/2.

LAN Distance extends your LAN applications to wide area networks using the same LAN application programming interfaces. This allows you to run your LAN applications remotely with complete transparency.

LAN Distance supports all major network applications such as IBM LAN Server, Novell Netware, Artisoft LANtastic**, Windows for Workgroups**, Communications Manager/2, PC/3270, TCP/IP, DB2/2, Person to Person, Lotus** Notes** and many others. LAN Distance acts as a remote bridge from your remote client, and provides full support for NetBIOS, 802.2, IPX and IP protocols over the remote connection.

With integrated security features like password configuration and automatic call-back, LAN Distance can provide your users with remote connectivity while protecting your network from intruders. LAN Distance offers the best in remote access solutions for your remote connectivity needs.

Database

At the heart of most business applications is the database. Ranging from the simple to the complex, databases allow you to store information in a logical manner for reporting, query, and application usage. Data access is critical to the success of any company, and IBM has the widest range of products to help customers manage their data, from PC to LAN, mini and mainframe.

Database 2 OS/2

Powerful and robust relational databases are key to the success of moving more and more mission critical, personal productivity and line of business applications to client/server networks. As the inventor of relational database technology, IBM systems currently manage more terabytes of data in relational databases than any other vendor.

Database 2* OS/2 (DB2/2*) is the latest in 32-bit relational SQL databases, and is compatible with DB2* on the host, and SQL/400* on the AS/400. DB2/2 is based on client/server technology, which moves much of the file processing to the database server. This reduces the need for powerful clients and removes much of the network load associated with non-distributed databases. DB2/2 clients are available for DOS, Windows and OS/2, with an OS/2 based server.

DB2/2 provides a wealth of features such as:

  • Roll Forward Recovery to protect data in case of system or media failure
  • Referential Integrity to insure consistency of data values between related columns in different tables.
  • Query Manager or command line interfaces
  • Support for IPX/SPX between clients and servers
  • Wide range of third-party support
  • Support for applications written in C, COBOL, FORTRAN and REXX.
Distributed Database Connection Services/2

The Distributed Database Connection Services/2* (DDCS/2) LAN gateway provides a Distributed Relation Database Architecture* (DRDA*) link from DOS, OS/2, and Windows databases to host databases via APPC. This transparent link between client and host allows users to connect, access, update host databases, allowing customers to implement a client/server solution for access to their data.

SYSTEMS AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

With business critical applications deployed on your network, monitoring and diagnosing network problems quickly and easily is critical. And when the system goes down, you need to be able to recover quickly to minimize costly downtime. Whether that means restoring a backup of your data, or finding a down network link, IBM can help. IBM's system management products and various storage management solutions can help keep your network at peak operating efficiency, and help you get it running again if problems do arise.

LAN NetView Management Utilities for OS/2

LAN NetView* Management Utilities (LMU) is an OS/2 based set of services that aid systems management of NetWare 3.11, NetWare 4.01, and LAN Server networks. LMU is a great solution for small LANs, businesses and workgroups because it is easy to use, and has a standard set of functions targeted for the small LAN.

LMU provides management of operations, configuration, performance and faults. Using a graphical display of the network and management applications, LMU can also collect asset information in an OS/2 database. LMU can operate by itself, or as part of NetView for OS/2.

Configuration management collects product information about OS/2, DOS, Windows and Macintosh workstations, as well as NetWare and LAN Server servers. Alerts can be configured when configurations change.

Operation management provides the ability to remotely execute programs and procedures at OS/2, and Windows workstations, or NetWare servers. Program execution for NetWare and the workstations can be scheduled. In addition, OS/2 and NetWare systems can be shutdown and rebooted remotely.

The performance management system monitors IPX/SPX layers for workstations, server volume information, and server performance data, as well as a variety of OS/2 and LAN Server performance data collection. This information can be collected in an OS/2 database and can be configured to send alerts when thresholds are exceeded.

LAN NetView Management Utilities for OS/2 provides a rich set of systems management function for managing both NetWare and IBM LANs in a single, easy to use solution.

NetView for OS/2

For administrators, IBM NetView for OS/2 is an industry-standards-based managing system platform for creating and running systems management applications. Standard applications and agents are included so you can immediately begin managing your environment.

LAN Server, NetWare, OS/2 1.3/2.X, IBM DOS 5.0/6.1, MS-DOS** 5.0/6.0, Windows 3.0/3.1, and Microsoft NT** are all supported right out of the box. Other critical network devices such as hubs, routers, database servers, communications servers, and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) devices are supported.

The common user interface for NetView for OS/2 is provided by the Management Desk component, which presents system and network resources as graphical objects on the display. This provides a convenient, object-oriented method for performing operations.

The benefits of NetView for OS/2 are improved availability of network resources, greater efficiency for administrators, reduced costs over the running life of the LAN, and better service for all network users.

Save Utility/2

For the small business and small networks, Save Utility/2 is a great solution for storage needs. Save Utility/2 backs up all workstations and servers in your network; up to 250 per Save Utility/2 server. With support for OS/2, DOS, hidden files, long file names, and extended attributes, it provides complete automated and unattended backup of the data on your network. Backups can be configured for full, incremental or progressive, and you can restore single files, multiple files, subdirectories, and entire disks either at the end node or remotely by the administrator.

Using a forwarding method from workstations and servers to the Save Utility/2 server (via NetBIOS or IPX/SPX), the Save Utility/2 server provides a single point of administration for activity, logs, and controls in your network.

ADSTAR Distributed Storage Manager/2

For more diverse networks, ADSTAR* Distributed Storage Manager/2 (ADSM/2), provides distributed storage management services for automated backup/restore from multiple types of workstations and servers. ADSM/2 supports a wide variety of communications protocols, and is designed to promote data availability, storage management, and data access across heterogeneous network environments.

ADSM/2 provides operational flexibility by allowing users to decide when, how often, and what data to backup/archive. It provides productivity gains by automating the necessary system operations in an easy-to-use fashion, and keeps track of all activity for reporting purposes.

The clients supported include DOS, OS/2, Macintosh, NetWare, Windows, AIX* and many other UNIX**-based clients. To handle connections to these platforms, ADSM supports a variety of protocols including Advanced Program to program Communications (APPC), IPX/SPX, NetBIOS, TCP/IP, and Named Pipes.

ADSM/2 is designed to simplify and reduce the workstation user and LAN administrator's effort when managing backup and storage. ADSM/2 is one of a family of scalable servers to accommodate growth of storage needs on different platforms. Those platforms include AIX/6000*, AS/400, VM and MVS servers.

Groupware

Connecting personal computers together in a network has brought about an entire software industry known as groupware. These products are used to help a group of people become more effective. IBM offers a combination of groupware productivity solutions that represent some of the best in the industry.

Lotus Notes

Lotus Notes is a groupware application used to create and share information among users. Notes can be used for document management, tracking, project management, distribution of information, or free form discussions. With the ability to integrate text, graphics, photos, spreadsheet data and documents, Notes makes and ideal reference platform for tracking information that contains several parts.

Integrated conferencing, broadcast dissemination, executive information systems, and mail enabled applications are just a few of the many uses of Notes. With its dial-in features, outbound fax support, gateways to cc:Mail, MHS and other mail systems, Notes can connect even the largest networks together for information sharing.

Notes uses distributed and automatically replicated databases, with Remote System Access (RSA) security encryption of messages. Originally designed for OS/2, Notes for OS/2 will also integrate and operate with other Notes platforms, such as NetWare, and can operate using IPX/SPX protocols.

LOTUS CC:MAIL

One of the most widely used groupware applications is electronic mail. In fact, many networks are installed for the purpose of making this valuable tool available. Lotus cc:Mail** is a standard in the electronic mail industry, and is available for DOS, Windows, OS/2 and Macintosh clients. Remote mail capabilities make cc:Mail a natural for companies with people on the road, or with the need to access mail from home.

cc:Mail provides features for the management of mail data storage, several administrative reporting options, and gateways to connect your mail users with SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol as used on the Internet), PROFS*, Novell MHS compatible systems, and more.

Person to Person

Person to Person* allows you to use the network instead of the airport for company meetings. This product allows people to work together more easily by adding a new dimension to their telephone conferences - computer assisted desktop conferencing.

Screens from typical PC applications like word processors, spreadsheets and graphics can be shared with others in remote locations without leaving the office. All participants can see the same information at the same time, making work sessions more convenient, efficient and effective. Optional video capability can be added to view and transmit live video.

Person to Person is available in both OS/2 and Windows versions, and can interoperate across platforms. Up to 8 users can share data and video across a wide variety of networks, including NetBIOS, IPX, TCP/IP, SNA, Asynch and ISDN.

The main feature of Person to Person is called the Chalkboard. It provides "What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get" capability for interactive real-time collaboration. The chalkboard is the key tool used to share application data with other participants.

Time and Place/2

Time and Place/2 (TaP/2) is a calendar application for networks. Using a Time and Place server, clients on DOS, Windows and OS/2 workstations can perform group scheduling of people and resources. TaP/2 integrates free time search, notification to other TaP/2 users and to non-TaP/2 users via a VIM (vendor independent messaging) interface to mail systems.

TaP/2 supports IPX, NetBIOS and TCP/IP connections from the server to the clients, and can be configured with a gateway to OfficeVision* on the host to integrate host-based calendars.

In addition to standard scheduling features (free time search, repeating events, configurable print formats, alarms and others), TaP/2 also offers a todo list and a memo area. With its rich features and host affinity, TaP/2 offers a great calendaring and scheduling solution for all sizes of networks.

What To Do Next

For more information on how IBM LAN software can make your network more productive, simply call 1-800-IBM-CALL (1-800-426-2255) in the U.S., 1-800-565-SW4U (1-800-565-7948) in Canada, or contact your local IBM office or reseller. You can also obtain a free copy of the IBM LAN Software Buyer's Guide by calling 1-800-IBM-CALL in the U.S.

There is a group of independent vendors, known as the BESTeam*, who have a business partnership with IBM to provide technical services for IBM products. This group consists of consultants, selected aggregators and distributors, value added resellers, systems integrators and network integrators. To locate a BESTeam member for your company, please call 1-312-245-7846 in the U.S., or 1-800-465-7999 Ext. 371 in Canada.