Wolfgang_Naegeli.TSRS_ED@TSRSQM.ED.ORNL.GOV (Wolfgang Naegeli) (09/27/89)
Reply to: Remote access to AppleTalk file servers A couple of weeks ago I commented on ways to access AppleTalk file servers via modem. ---- Summary of issue and previous comments ---- The need was for a reasonably inexpensive solution for people to access file servers from their home or other remote locations. I argued, that remote AppleTalk, such as is possible with software that comes bundled with Shiva's NetModem and other devices from Shiva and Solana, or through software-only solutions such as incorporated in InfoShpere's Liaison, carried far too much packet overhead to provide satisfactory performance for copying files when run over an affordable 2400 baud modem. I then suggested the use of the Red Ryder Host (RRH) bulletin board software, whith the file server volume(s) mounted on the machine that runs RRH, since file transfers are much quicker using XMODEM, which minimizes overhead. ---- New information ---- Meanwhile I have had some afterthoughts. Red Ryder Host may not be a good solution, because it requires preparation of each file for access. Essentially this consists of a file description that _must_ be filled in before the file can be downloaded by dial-up users. This is a tedious manual process that must be done by the System Operator. Thus, if the Sysop is not around, new files put on the server by networked users will not be accessible to remote users until 'prepared' -- a potential problem if you don't have a vigilant Sysop on duty around the clock. However, files uploaded by remote users become available immediately to remote and networked users, because RRH prompts the uploader for the description (though you may want to set the option that requires Sysop validation of uploaded files to prevent the spread of viruses). This manual file preparation requirement is a big hassle and makes publishing of CD-ROM disks with thousands of files impractical. I checked with Scott Watson, the developer of RRH, and he told me that presently there is no way to automate the process. Since I was asked for it, here is where you can get RRH: FreeSoft (what a contradiction! though their products are fairly cheap) 150 Hickory Dr. Beaver Falls, PA 15010 412-846-2700 If I remember right, we paid about $135 for RRH. Almost any terminal emulation software can be used to access RRH, including FreeTerm (which is really free and available from many on-line services and user groups). There also is disk sharing software called SilverServer from LaCie, that has remote dial-in capabilities. I have not seen it personally, but it may be as efficient in file transfers as RRH, and as far as I know, does not have the preparation requirements. It does not have mail and conferencing capabilities like RRH though, and you can't use any standard telecomm. package to access it. Each users must purchase a copy of SilverServer for about $100 per shot. Wait, the best is still to come. I have just come accross TeleFinder, and it seems to be the best solution yet. It provides a graphic user interface, mail, and conferencing. You download or upload a file by simply dragging an icon or group of icons to your disk or to the server icon. No need for file preparation. Anyone familiar with the Mac can use it in minutes. You can use most telecomm. packages, if you only need to download files or read mail. It costs $575 for the server and 50 client packages. Spider Island Software 4790 Irvine Blvd., Suite 105-347 Irvine, CA 92720 714-669-9260 You can also dial their server at 714-730-5785 with any package that supports XMODEM transfer and download a demo version.