Don't get me wrong. I'm all in favor of using Java as the language for implementing a distributed component architecture, but we don't need another component standard. At the JavaOne conference in April, JavaSoft outlined JBE, a server-side component model. At other times, JBE is merely positioned as a Java-specific instance of these other models. Two competing distributed component models is bad enough.
Corporate developers are ready to pick a strategic distributed component standard next year.
With the demise of OpenDoc, JBE GUI components can offer a standard for heterogeneous client GUIs. Users are ready to choose a distributed component strategy this year, and must choose wisely. If you missed Richard Hoffman's column, Resisting The Path of Least Resistance, take a moment to read his unique view on what Microsoft has become. Remote-Office Firewalls Article Guide Full Chart Customize Chart Product Directory Search Find more Buyer's Guides . In our continuing coverage, Brooke Paul shows you how to ensure only authorized individuals have access to data and systems and provide an audit trail for accountability.