Article Abstract:
Microsoft is attempting to set the standard for Internet broadcasting, and further differentiate its products from Netscape's in the process. Web site developers are increasingly using push technology to deliver television-like channels with customized content. Microsoft wants to integrate a standard channel interface into its Internet Explorer 4.0, due in beta by mid-1997. However, the standard would make Internet Explorer increasingly incompatible with Netscape Navigator. Microsoft is also joining forces with PointCast, a content provider that carries articles from the Wall Street Journal and channels from Time Warner entity, CNN. AOL, Starware and Hotwired all plan to support the new broadcasting format. Rival push technology developer BackWeb Technologies plans to support the Microsoft standard, while Marimba sees its technology as more advanced. Netscape has focused on using push technology to provide comprehensive software solutions for the corporate intranet market.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
Netscape's new integrated software packages will use 'push' technology to deliver Web-based content to corporate users. The new browser will be able to automatically retrieve e-mail, as well as some faxes and voicemail. Netscape's new server will be able to deliver custom content as well as provide enhanced security. The company is seeking to develop a standard for 'push' technology before rival Microsoft, but the increasing complexity requires that each company's browser and server software be more tightly integrated, and thus less interoperable. Both companies claim to be using open standards, but neither immediately adopts the others' innovations. Increasing differences between the two software packages could force corporations to choose one vendor or another. Analysts like the new Netscape package, which will replace the Communicator browser and SuiteSpot server, but fear the development of two competing technological standards.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
The battle between Netscape Communications and Microsoft for control of the Internet is now focusing on intranets. These are private corporate networks that use the Internet for business purposes. Netscape has found that the majority of its users employ the company's software to develop internal intranets, rather than to establish Internet sites. About 80% of Netscape's income is currently derived from these companies. Microsoft also reports that about 80% of its Internet servers are employed on intranets. The Internet software market is expected to reach $8.5 billion by 1999. Netscape is changing its focus to business applications and has made agreements with many vendors, including IBM, who are now distributing its intranet software along with their products. Microsoft is countering by distributing its intranet server software with its Windows NT operating system.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: