It's a good choice for smaller ISPs or businesses looking for a Web appliance that can be installed quickly and that has few of the management and IT issues associated with a traditional server farm. Like previous Cobalt appliances, the RaQ XTR is easy to set up. Virtually right out of the box it's ready to go. Initial configuration consists solely of using several push buttons on the lockable front bezel to input an IP address, a subnet mask, and gateway information.
All subsequent administration is performed with a Web browser.
Cobalt also includes many advanced application options such as CGI scripting, Active Server Pages, FrontPage extensions, and SQL database hooks. A WebMail option offers the flexibility to check e-mail remotely. Unlike lower-end appliances, which are often sealed boxes, the RaQ XTR is upgradable. It supports up to 2GB of RAM and four hard drives and has an open PCI slot. ISPS generally deploy the RaQ XTR as a turnkey hosting device, then turn basic administration over to the customer, according to Sun.