The HiLANder is self-configuring in that it'll detect the frame types and IPX network numbers of the networks it's connected to when first turned on. This information is used to configure the LAN drivers in NetWare. The unit has its own NDS tree when delivered, so some reconfiguring will be needed if you're already using NetWare 4.x. Integrating the HiLANder into your existing tree will make administration at a later stage much easier. The management console runs on any Windows PC and can manage multiple HiLANders, if your network really is that big.
Management consists of a number of different modules, and media management facilities are good.
A TSA is available for NetWare clients, which can also be backed up by the HiLANder, as long as they're turned on and have the NetWare client loaded. The HiLANder is only of use on networks with many servers, particularly those that are geographically distant, but what it does for those networks is remarkable. The centralisation of backup, both in terms of management and the physical media, cuts down on the time spent attending to backups, and therefore the cost. Implementing the system will require some planning, but once in place it'll save a great deal of effort. Hitachi Data Systems is currently developing a Windows NT version of the HiLANder, which will have similar features to the NetWare-based version.