The PC architecture, while fine for workstations and servers running applications, wasn't made for typical remote-access demands. Expansion cards are inserted into the server, configured and left alone. However, remote-access servers are notorious for needing extra care and feeding. If a modem fails and the card needs to be replaced, the entire server must be dropped while the hardware is swapped and the server brought back online. Adding new software to NT requires a rather complex dance to reapply service packs and hot fixes.
Minimum downtime can e asily amount to over an hour.
The use of the service packs and hot fixes becomes an exercise in patience. By the time you read this column, many of the questions racing through my mind probably will have been answered, but I'm guessing the answers will not be satisfactory. I am writing this on Tuesday, September 11, the day we, as American citizens, lost our innocence. Due to the tragic events within our country, The Network Computing Shoot Out and Best of Show Awards ceremony have been postponed until a later date. Please check back for information on revised event dates.