This is bad news for users of Linux, MacOS and others. But since Mobile Link is an implementation of an Open Source product, other platform support may become available. Each desktop PC where handhelds will be docked requires either Windows CE Services 2.0 or HotSync Manager 2.0 or later. That's not great for scalability or security. The AvantGo Client communicates with the server via Mobile Link seamlessly, so the connectivity involved is transparent to the user.
Synchronization occurs regardless of the location of the handheld.
Therefore, an organization can set up its synchronization for traveling users through a typical modem bank attached to a bunch of centralized remote-access PCs, instead of needing a dedicated phone line and modem on each PC, which is a logistical and security nightmare. AvantGo Server is easy to install. Under Windows NT, it can integrate with NT Domain Directory Services, simplifying user administration, and can also integrate with LDAP directories. If local user administration is preferred, Avant-Go Server installs its own SQL database for storing server and user information. The AvantGo Server includes an optional security module, letting you use 128-bit SSL encryption for remote connections between the server and other Web servers.