Focuses on designing a library network to maximize security. Discusses UNIX and file servers; connectivity to campus, corporate networks and the Internet; separation of staff from public servers; controlling traffic; the threat of network sniffers; hubs that eliminate eavesdropping; dividing the network into subnets; Switched Ethernet;…

The current version of the IP protocol, IPv4, is the most widely used protocol in computer networks. This article describes mechanisms that can be used to facilitate the transition to the new version of the IP protocol, IPv6, and examines usability, usefulness and manageability. Describes how some of these mechanisms were applied to the Greek…

Delivering content to distant users located in dispersed networks, separated by firewalls and different web domains requires extensive customization and integration. This article outlines some of the problems of implementing the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) in the Marine Corps' Distance Learning System (MarineNet) and extends…

Describes the layered model of Open Systems Interconnection (OSI); summarizes the three upper and lower layers; and discusses data communications standards associated with specific layers. Architectural concepts are explored, including hierarchy and abstraction, levels of dialogue, internetworking, and end-to-end communication. OSI is compared…

Discusses the issues influencing the design, implementation, and promotion of the Towers Perrin in-house text retrieval system. The discussion of factors influencing system design includes the organizational culture, the existing computer and communications network, and the availability of text retrieval software. Suggestions for in-house systems…

Examines potential solutions to the problem of personal computer cabling and configuration and serial port performance, namely "FireWire" (P1394) and "Universal Serial Bus" (USB). Discusses interface design, technical capabilities, user friendliness, compatibility, costs, and future perspectives. (AEF)

Describes one decision-making approach for quickly implementing a communications network into a school district. The use of volunteer labor for wiring installation, computer selection focusing on standardization to aid in troubleshooting, and an intranet system to achieve efficiency and learning opportunities for teachers and administrative…

Describes one public school library's struggles and solutions to problems associated with managing its new Windows desktop. To implement goals for organizing the desktop, the library selected the FoolProof desktop security system, utilized networks administration to enforce the school's Acceptable Use Policy, and used Windows 95 System Policies.…

Focuses on ArtsNetMN--an art curriculum site developed by four Minnesota museums. Discusses design features on the ArtsNetMN site; collaboration as a key to ArtsNetMN's success as an online Learning Museum; the change from use of a listserv to a software product called Web Board; feedback from teachers; and implications for the classroom.…

Introduces a Web authoring and publishing system, DAPHNE (Distributed Authoring and Publishing in a Hypertext and Networked Environment). Addresses DAPHNE's system architecture and design principles, key features, new developments--especially those regarding integration of a workflow for management of multilingual Web sites, and the possibility of…

This report, profusely illustrated with color photographs and other graphics, elaborates on the Department of Energy (DOE) research program in High Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC). The DOE is one of seven agency programs within the Federal Research and Development Program working on HPCC. The DOE HPCC program emphasizes research in…

The report of these two hearings on high definition information systems begins by noting that they are digital, and that they are likely to handle computing, telecommunications, home security, computer imaging, storage, fiber optics networks, multi-dimensional libraries, and many other local, national, and international systems. (It is noted that…

This paper outlines a detailed research investigation of Web information systems (WIS), such as intranets, extranets, and the World Wide Web, and their capacity to facilitate organizational knowledge work. The objective was to conduct a case study evaluation of WIS usage that examines the information needs and uses of major sets of users and the…

Provides a brief overview of primary computer network structures serving the academic research community and discusses plans for the transformation of Internet into a National Research and Education Network (NREN). The scope of resources likely to be available to users through the NREN are described, the concept of national collaboratives is…

Explains how the Directory Service (CCITT X.500/ISO 9594) became an international standard in response to the difficulties of keeping data on information network users current and accessible. Uses of X.500 are described, a technical overview is provided, its functions and protocols are assessed, and directory projects and products are discussed.…